Letters and recollections, being letters to Tobias Lear and others between 1790 and 1799, showing the First American in the management of his estate and domestic affairs;

I i ll

. . : : I.

Hlli

MINIATURE OF GEORGE WASHINGTON
Presented to Tobias Lear by Mrs. Washington.

Being letters to Tobias Lear and others be-
tween 1790 and 1799, showing the First
American in the management of his estate
and domestic affairs.

With a diary of Washington's last days,
kept by Mr. Lear.

Illustratid from
far* »ld portraits, pbotagraphi and tngravingt

New York

Doubleday, Page & Company
1906

Copyright, 1905, by W. K. Bixby

Copyright, 1906, by

Doubleday, Page & Company

Published, July, 1906

AH rights reserved,

including that of translation into foreign languages,
including the Scandinavian

The letters to Mr. Tobias Lear contained in
this volume were copied from the originals writ-
ten by Washington. The volume was furnished
to me, while I was preparing Washington's Writ-
ings for the press, by Mr. Lincoln Lear, and I
now present it to his daughter, Miss Louisa Lear.

JARED SPARKS
Cambridge,

October, 1852.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The publishers acknowledge gratefully the permis-
sion given by Mr. W. K. Bixby to use in this collection
those letters to Tobias Lear included in a privately
printed volume of Washington letters already issued by
him.

But for the courteous assistance received at the
Lenox Library, much that it was our privilege to include
in this collection, must have been omitted.

The volume of " Letters to William Pearce from
George Washington," brought out by the Long Island
Historical Society, is the authority for several interesting
letters to Mr. Pearce herein reproduced.

ix

INTRODUCTION.

The letters from George Washington to my grand-
father, Tobias Lear, included in this volume, are inter-
esting as showing a side of that great man's character
new to the public. His mastery of detail in domestic
life appears to have been as remarkable as his power to
conduct the affairs of a great nation.

His confidence in my grandfather is proved by these
letters to him — if proof is needed. He entrusted him
with the management of those household details so
interesting and important in his eyes. Tobias Lear
was born in 1760 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire; he
graduated from Harvard in 1783, entering at once upon
the duties of tutor to Washington's adopted children,
afterwards becoming his private secretary, in which
capacity he remained for sixteen years, or until Wash-
ington's death. He was also his military aide, with
rank of Colonel, when such services were needed. Be-
sides his professional position, he had a higher standing
in the family through marriage. After the death of
his first wife — Mary Long, of Portsmouth, N. H., my
own grandmother — he married Fanny Washington;
and again, after her death, Frances Dandridge Henley,
a niece of Martha Washington. Through this last

marriage, I became the possessor of a very valuable and
unique quilt, made by Mrs. Washington's wn hands,
. which was used on George Washington's bed. The min-
iature of Washington here reproduced was presented to
Tobias Lear by Martha Washington, after her husband's
death. It has a large lock of his hair at the back of it.
The miniature of Tobias Lear is a remarkably fine one,
painted by Cottoni, an Italian. The setting is of gold,
bordered by a narrow band of blue enamel, edged on
each side by seed pearls.

Tobias Lear's only child — my father — was christened
Benjamin Lincoln, after General Lincoln. My grand-
father writes, in a letter to William Atkinson: "Our
boy has the name of Benjamin Lincoln in memory of
my true friend and one of the best of men. Many
express their surprise that a son of mine, born too in
this family, should receive any other name than that of
George Washington. But altho' I love & respect the
great man who bears that name, yet I would not for
the world do a thing that could savour of adulation
toward him — and if I would not adulate him I am sure
I would adulate no human being."

Washington was this child's godfather, presenting
him with a silver pap-cup and spoon. Unfortunately,
the cup was stolen.

The locket here shown, containing a lock of my
grandmother's hair, is of glass, set in gold, upon which
is engraved the date of her death, and "To B. L. L.
from his friend M. Washington. "

xi

/»
t

Tobias Lear evidently had, in a quiet way, consider-
able influence over Washington. The diary mentions
the fact of his moderating Washington's excitement
over something he was reading in the paper. It was
also through his persuasions that his New England trip
was taken.

I have written this short introduction to show in
what high esteem Washington held Lear. As to my
grandfather's affection for Washington, the diary
shows.

I was defrauded of the originals of these letters.

LOUISA LEAR EYRE.

CONTENTS

PAGE

Letters from George Washington to his Secre-
tary, Tobias Lear 3

The last days of George Washington from a

diary kept by Mr. Lear . . . .129

Miscellaneous letters revealing the great States-
man's mode of life at Mt. Vernon . . 142

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
Miniature of George Washington . Frontispiece

FACING PAGE

Miniature of Tobias Lear . , , , 68

Washington's bedroom in which he died . . 134

Commemoration of the death of Washington . 140

Quilt given to Mr. Lear by the Washingtons . 162

The Stuart portrait of Martha Washington . 184

Third Wife of Tobias Lear . . . •. 226

(Also a niece of Martha Washington)

The homes of Washington and Robert Morris,

Philadelphia , . 250

LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS
OF GEORGE WASHINGTON

No. i

PHILADELPHIA, Septr. sth. 1790.
Dear Sir,

After a pleasant journey we arrived in this City about
2 o'clock on Thursday last. To morrow we proceed
(if Mrs. Washington's health will permit, for she has
been much indisposed since she came here) towards
Mount Vernon.

The house of Mr. R. Morris had, previous to my ar-
rival, been taken by the Corporation for my residence.
It is the best they could get. It is, I believe, the best
Single house in the City ; yet without additions, it is in-
adequate to the commodious accommodations of my
family. These, I believe will be made.

The first floor contains only two public Rooms (ex-
cept one for the upper Servants). The second floor
will have two public (drawing) Rooms & with the aid
of one Room with the partition in it, in the back build-
ing will be sufficient for the accommodation of Mrs.
Washington & the children & their maids — besides
affording me a small place for a private study and dress-
ing room. The third story will furnish you and Mrs.
Lear with a good lodging Room, — a public office (for
there is no place below for one) and two Rooms for the
Gentlemen of the family. The Garret has four good
Rooms which must serve Mr. and Mrs. Hyde (unless
they should prefer the Room over the Wash house),

4 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

William — and such servants as it may not be better to
place in the addition (as proposed) to the back building.
There is a room over the Stable (without a fireplace,
but by means of a Stove) may serve the Coachman &
Postillions; and there is a smoke house, which possi-
bly may be more useful to me for the accommodation
of Servants, than for smoking of meat. The intention of
the addition to the back Building is to provide a Ser-
vants' Hall, and one or two (as it will afford) lodging
Rooms for the Servants, especially those who are
coupled. There is a very good Wash house adjoining
the Kitchen (under one of the Rooms already men-
tioned). There are good Stables, but for 12 horses
only, and a Coach house which will hold all my
Carriages.

Speaking of Carriages, — I have left my Coach to re-
ceive a thorough repair against I return (which I expect
will happen before the first of December) and I request
you will visit Mr. Clark (into whose hands it is com-
mitted) often, to see it well done ; and that I may not
be disappointed in the time allowed him for the com-
pletion, which is by the 25th. of November. The har-
ness is also left with him, and he has my Ideas on this
subject: — generally they are, if the wheel harness
(which I understand was left at New York) can be
made complete, and look as well as if they were new,
then & in that case, he is to make a set of pole-end Har-
ness to suit them, both to be plated — but if this can-
not be accomplished, the set is to be made entirely new,
— and in the best style.

I have requested Colo. Biddle to take measure for
laying in wood for me, this being, he thinks, the proper
time for doing it, & to draw upon you for the amount
of Cost.

The pressure of business under which I laboured for
several days before I left New York, allowed me no

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 5

time to enquire who of the female servants it was pro-
posed or thought advisable to remove here, besides
the wives of the footmen, — namely, James and Fidas.
The Washerwomen, I believe, are good, but as they,
or one of them at least, has a family of children — quere,
whether it is necessary to incumber the march, — and
the family afterwards with them? I neither contradict
or advise the measure — your own judgment, and the
circumstances of the case must decide the point: — but
unless there is better reason than I am acquainted with
for bringing Mrs. Lewis, her daughter and their fami-
lies along, they had better, I should conceive, be left :
— but as I never investigated the subject, I will give no
decisive opinion thereon.

As Mr. Hyde some little time before I left New York
expressed dissatisfaction, signifying he could neither
enjoy under the conduct of the servants the happiness
he wished, or render those services he thought might
be expected from him, it might be well for you before
I am at the expense of his removal, to know decidedly
what his determination is, and his views with respect
to a continuance. There can be no propriety in sad-
ling me with the cost of his transportation, & that of
his baggage, if he has it in contemplation to leave me
at, or soon after his arrival. And I am the rather in-
clined to make this suggestion now as time will allow
you to scrutinize his accounts, and to form a good com-
parative view of them with Francis's. As a steward,
I am satisfyed William (independent of the woman,
& what her excellence is I really know not) would be
full his equal — and I think the dinners, if the Cook had
more agency in the planing of them, would be better ;
— at least more tasty, but this Mr. and Mrs. Hyde's
pride will not submit to. As I have got to the end of
the paper and am tired, I shall only add that your let-
ter of the 3d. with its enclosures came safe — and that

6 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Mrs. Washington joins me in best wishes for Mrs. Lear
and yourself. I am sincerely & affectionately —

Yrs.
P. S.

In a fortnight or 20 days from this time, it is ex-
pected Mr. Moms will have removed out of the house.
It is proposed to add bow windows to the two public
Rooms in the South front of the house, but as all the
other apartments will be close and secure the sooner
after that time you can be in the house, with the fur-
niture, the better, that you may be well fixed and see
how matters go on during my absence.
MR. LEAR.

No. 2.

BALTIMORE, Septr. gth. 1790.
Dear Sir,

Agreeably to the information given in my last, I
left Philadelphia on Monday and arrived here yesterday
afternoon. To day I rest. To morrow I proceed, and
hope to arrive safe at Mount Vernon on Saturday,
after taking dinner at Abingdon, on our way.

In order that you may not be too fast or too slow in
your removal to Philadelphia, it might be well to open
a correspondence with Mr. Morris, requesting him to
inform you at what time the house will be ready to re-
ceive the furniture, because it is proposed as I was in-
formed after writing to you on Sunday last, to have the
Rooms painted after Mr. Morris should have left it.
I would not let the bow windows, or any other addi-
tion to the house, or any of the out buildings be any
impediment to your removal, for you will have suffi-
cient Room to stow the furniture (intended for the two
large Rooms) in some other parts of the house ; and for
all those who will accompany you ; and by being on the
spot you will have it more in your power to provide

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON" 7

wood, and make such other arrangements as shall be
found necessary, than you can do at a distance,
besides accomplishing the main point (that is, the
removal) before the weather becomes cold and intem-
perate.

In my last I left it with you to decide on the pro-
priety of bringing the Washer women. I do so still.
But with respect to Mrs. Lewis and her daughter, I
wish it may not be done, especially as it is in contem-
plation to transplant Hercules or Nathan from the
Kitchen at Mount Vernon to that in Philadelphia ; and
because the dirty figures of Mrs. Lewis and her
daughter will not be a pleasant sight in view (as the
Kitchen always will be) of the principal entertaining
rocms in our new habitation.

Upon a second conversation with Mr. Clark, the
Coach maker, it was concluded to have the Harness for
the Coach quite new and plated ; and I should be glad
it you would see that they are handsomely executed.
He is to make harness for the pole-end as well as for the
wheel horses, & promises that every thing shall be
completed by the middle of November.

Mr. and Mrs. Morris have insisted upon leaving the
two large looking Glasses which are in their best Rooms,
because they have no place (they say) proper to re-
move them to, and because they are unwilling to
hazzard the taking of them down. You will therefore
let them have, in place of them, the choice of mine.
The large ones which I purchased from the French
Minister they do not incline to take ; but will be glad of
some of the others. They also will leave a large Glass
lamp in the entry or Hall, and will take one or more of
my Glass lamps in lieu of it. In disposing of the Yards
Mr Morris will take in (to the House he removes to;
the part which formerly belonged to it. I mention
this that you may not be surprised at the attempt.

8 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Nothing further occurs at present. Mrs. Washington
unites with me in good wishes for Mrs. Lear and
yourself and I am,

Sincerely & affectionately
Yrs.

No. 3.

MOUNT VERNON, Septr. i7th. 1790.
Dear Sir,

Having received no letter from you since the one
dated the 3d Instant, I have nothing to reply to. The
motive for writing to you at this time is, that upon un-
packing the china ornaments which accompanied the
mirrors for the Tables, it was found (notwithstanding
they were in Bran) that many of the delicate and tender
parts were broken ; occasioned, I believe, by the Bran
not being put in and settled down by a little at a time.
To press the Bran around the Images (you have to re-
move with the platteaux) will not answer ; still it must
be so compact as to prevent friction, in moving; and
this can only be done by putting each Image or figure
in a separate box, with Bran, by little and little,
shaking and settling it by degrees as it is added.

By a letter which Major Jackson has received from
General Steward, he has completed his removal, & Mr.
Morris had begun to take things out of the house I am
to have, to make room for my furniture, but as Mr.
Morris was desired, so I am persuaded he will inform
you when it will be safe and proper for you to remove.
The sooner I think it can be done the better; as you
will be able to make such arrangements, and provide
such conveniences as you will know we shall want, and
which (I suppose) through the channels they are now
making, may be accomplished.

We have resolved to take one of my Cooks with us,
and if upon examining into the matter it shall be found

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 9

convenient, I may also take on a boy; — at any rate,
there will be no occasion for Mrs. Lewis or her daughter ;
for a Scullion may always be had in Philadelphia.

In one of my former letters I suggested to you the
propriety of knowing decidedly what Mr. Hyde's views
are before he is removed from New York at my expence,
and I now repeat it : — first, because it is necessary for
me to be placed upon a certainty; — and secondly, be-
cause if he has any difficulties or doubts — or has it in
contemplation to talk in a short time (which is but too
common a case) of increased wages, it would be best
to separate at once, as well for these reasons as the one
I communicated in a former letter and because I fear
his Table is a much more expensive one than it ought to
be. But as this is conjecture only, I will not charge
him with it — tho' I think the short duration of the
first Pipe of Pintard wine, is a pretty evident proof
that that article was expended more expeditiously than
it ever was in Francis's time. How it has been with
other things if you have been able to compare the
accts. of the one with the other, you must be the best
judge.

We arrived safe at this place on Saturday last, but
not without one upset of the Charriot and Waggon —
fortunately neither was hurt. We all unite in best
wishes for you and Mrs. Lear, and I am your sincere
friend and affectionate Servant,

Take measure either by yourself or through
Colo. Biddle to engage Wood in season & whilst
it is to be obtained on good terms.

No. 4.

MOUNT VERNON, Septr. 2oth. 1790.
Dear Sir,

The Servant who carried my letter of the i yth. to the

io LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Post office in Alexandria, returned with yours of the
1 2th. which shall be the Subject for this reply.

What ever Ideas or remarks may have been excited
by my going into Mr. Morris's house I know not, but
this I am sure of, that to do it was farthest from my ex-
pectations. The Corporation of the City (by whom it
was engaged) made attempts it seems to get other
places, but none being to be obtained to their liking,
Mr. Morris's was offered, and accepted, subject to my
decision. To the Academy there were exceptions
which it was said could not be overcome. To Hunter's
Houses there were impediments. The Houses of Mrs.
Allan and Mr. Guirney could not be had because Mrs.
Pollock (tenant in the latter) would not relinquish it,
and Mr. or Mrs. Kepley's was found not to answer.
This, I was told, was the history of the business.

I have not the least objection to Fida's wife's coming
to Philadelphia in the vessel with the other servants;
nor to her continuing in the family afterwards, if she
chuses it and can do the duties of her station tolerably,
because I think he merits indulgence on James' account
(who I also think is a very good servant) I consent read-
ily, if it was his expectation & wish that his wife may
accompany the servants in the manner suggested by
you, or as a house maid if she is thought fit for it; —
but not being acquainted with the views of the parties
(James and Wife I mean) I can only say that I shall be
perfectly satisfied with whatever you do respecting the
matter. As I do not believe the House can be better
supplied with Washer women, I think it best to bring
those you have ; on condition that I shall not be bur-
thened with Fanny's children after they arrive. Thus
much for the lower Servants and their connections.

With respect to Mr. Hyde and his wife, if the duties
of the family are too much for both, will Mr. Hyde
alone be able to discharge them? If she quits, will not

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON n

a substitute be necessary? In that case or in case Mr.
Hyde acts alone, does he expect the same wages as are
now given to both? If it is not stated on some paper
handed in by Mr. Hyde, it is nevertheless strong in my
recollection, that his wife's services were stated at one,
and his own at 200 dollars per Annum. I have no wish
to part with Mr. or Mrs. Hyde, first because I do not
like to be changing ; — and secondly because I do not
know where or with whom to supply their places. On
the score of the accts. I can say nothing never having
taken a comparative view of his and Frauncis's, but I
am exceedingly mistaken if the expences of the second
Table at which Mr. Hyde presides, has not greatly ex-
ceeded that kept by Frauncis ; for (but in this I may be
mistaken) I strongly suspect that nothing is brought to
my Table of liquors, fruits or other things that is not
used as profusely at his. If my suspicions are un-
founded, I shall be sorry for having entertained them,
and if they are not, it is at least questionable, whether
his successor might not do the same thing ; — in which
case (if Hyde is honest and careful, of which you are
better able to judge than I am) a change without a
benefit might take place, and is not desirable, if they
are to be retained on proper terms. I say they, for if
Mrs. Hyde is necessary for the purposes innumerated
in your letter, and the Cook is not competent to the
desert, making Cake, &c. I do not see what use Hyde,
more than William, would be without her — nor do I
see why she should execute part of his duties and there-
by make her own too burthensome. Francis, besides
being an excellent Cook, knowing how to provide gen-
teel Dinners, and giving aid in dressing them, pre-
pared the desert, made the Cake, and did every thing
that Hyde and Wife conjointly do; consequently, the
services of Hyde alone, are not to be compared with
those of Francis, and if his accts. exceed (in the same

12 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

seasons) those of Frauncis 4 or £5 a week and at the
same time appear fair, I shall have no scruple to ac-
knowledge that I have entertained much harder
thoughts of the latter than I ought to have done, altho'
it is inconceivable to me how other families on 25 hd.
or 3000 dollars should be enabled to entertain more
company, at least more frequently, than I could do
for twenty five thousand dollars annually.

I am glad to hear that the furniture of the large
drawing Room, especially the Glasses, are packed in a
manner which you think secure. With respect to the
Table ornaments, my opinion has been so fully given on
the mode of putting them up, that I shall say nothing
further on the subject in this letter, and as I presume a
correspondence has been opened between Mr. Morris
and you, I have no doubt of your embracing the proper
moment for their removal, & the best mode of accom-
plishing it.

Mr. Macomb may in reality be indifferent as to the
taking the House off your hands — but it is highly prob-
able he will assume the appearance of it, in order to
derive an advantage in the terms, therefore as I shall
have to pay rent for it until May, if he or some other
does not take it, it would be well to bring him to some
decision at once or advertise the renting of it, and the
sale of the buildings I have put up at the same time.
You will make better terms for these than any Agent
that will be left behind & besides, it may hasten Mr.
Macomb (who from what I have heard I'm sure wants
the house) by alarming his fears, that others may step
in. To receive some compensation would be better
than to sink the whole rent & to lose the buildings
which I have erected on the lots. If there is no like-
lihood of my getting a tenant for the house you are in,
would not Mr. Macomb be glad to take it at the dif-
ference which disinterested and impartial men would

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 13

fix between it and the house he is in and for me to pay
the rent of the latter until a Tenant for it could be ob-
tained? This would be a step gained and is perhaps
what he is driving at.

With respect to Dingwell I join Colo. Hamilton &
Mr. Jefferson in opinion, that it is no more than a
catchpenny plan, — yet, for the reason assigned by
Genl. Knox, I think twenty or thirty dollars may be
given him, professedly for his trouble; with an assur-
ance that it is believed B has meant an imposition

on him, in as much as part of his information we know
is unfounded, & am sure from the complexion & ex-
pression of some of the letters, pretended to be re-
ceived from some of the King of G. B.'s Ministers,
that they are spurious. Yet, nevertheless, as it is
supposed that he, Dingwell, meant well, and has been
at some trouble in his report, this sum is given
expressly on those accts.

We have all of us been very well since we came to
this place and all join in best wishes for you and Mrs.
Lear.

With sincere regard & affecn.
I am, Yrs. &ca.

No. 5.

MOUNT VERNON, Septr. 27th. 1790.
Dear Sir,

Since my last to you (the date I do not recollect,
keeping no copies of my letters to you) I have reed.
yours of the i7th.&2oth. Inst. and shall answer such
parts of them as require it.

I am glad to find that the house according to Mr.
Morris's notification to you will be ready about the
time you had made arrangements for the removal of my
furniture, the mode of doing which, is, I am persuaded,

i4 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

the cheapest and best. How have you disposed (for
safety) of the Pagoda? It is a delicate piece of stuff
and will require to be tenderly handled.

I expected that Mr. Macomb, if he found that no
other person was disposed to take the house off my
hands, would endeavor to impose his own terms: and
allowing me only j£ioo for seven months use of it, when
the rent (independent of the houses I put on the lots)
is £400, is a pretty strong evidence of it. And if you
do not take some measures to see what can be had for
the Wash house and Stable, he will impose his own
terms there also. But after all, we are in his power,
and he must do as he pleases with us.

As the Lustre is paid for & securely packed up and
may suit the largest drawing Room at Mr. Morris's, I
do not incline to part with it ; the Franklin Stoves and
other fixtures, if they cannot be disposed of without
loss, must be brought round with the other furniture:
we may find use for them. Such things as are freighted
in the common way (if the vessel you desired Colo.
Biddleto procure is unable to carry the whole) had
better be of the kinds which require least care.

The sale of the old Charriot was proper, for although
the price is small it will be so much saved for the public.
If much worn or lumbering articles could be disposed
of to any tolerable account, might it not be better to
sell them at New York & buy (if necessary) new ones
at Philadelphia, than to pay freight for them round?

Mrs. Morris has a mangle (I think they are called)
for Ironing of Clothes, which, as it is fixed in the place
where it is commonly used, she proposed to leave and
take mine. To this I have no objection provided
mine is equally good and convenient ; but if I should
obtain any advantage, besides that of its being up, and
ready for use, I am not inclined to receive it.

Mrs. Washington and all of this family unite in best

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 15

wishes for you and Mrs. Lear, and I am your sincere
friend and

Affectionate Servant,

No. 6.

MOUNT VERNON, OCTR. 3d. 1790.

Dear Sir,

Your letters of the 22d. Ulto. came safe. I wish the
information given by Mr. Danl. Parker to Doctr. Crai-
gee may prove true. No mention of such event is in
Morris's letter to me, but the date is prior to that of Mr.
Parker's by six days. The declaration and counter-
declaration of the Minister of Britain and Spain are
published with the Communication thereof to the Lord
Mayor of London ; and yet it seems to be the opinion of
some of the Paragraphists, that the matter remains un-
settled. Further information (not contained in the
News papers) of these or any other interesting matters,
you would do well to give me the earliest intelligence of.
Mr. Jefferson being from New York will more than prob-
able delay official advices through the Office of Foreign
Affairs longer than it otherwise would be in coming to
me.

I request after you get to Philadelphia and previous
to our arrival there, that you would use your best en-
deavours to ascertain the characters or reputation of
such schools as it may be proper to place Washington
at, so soon as we shall be fixed in our new habitation ; —
particularly if there be any fit school in the College
for him, under good and able Tutors, & well attended.
His trip to Mount Vernon will be of no service to him,
but will render restraint more necessary than ever. If
the College is under good regulations, and have proper
tutors there for boys of his standing to prepare them
for the higher branches of education, quere, whether it

16 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

would not be better to place him in it at once ? the pre-
sumption being that a System prevails, by which the
gradations are better connected than they are in Schools
which have no correspondence with each other. Mr.
S — is a man of acknowledged abilities but — it may not
be well perhaps to say more in a letter, especially as
his re-instatement may have given rise to a reform of
that conduct which did not escape censure formerly.

The enclosed letters having been put under cover
to me, will of course occasion delay in the receipt of
them by you & Fidas. In all your communications
respecting the Servants no mention has been made of
John's wife. What do you understand to be her plan?
Enclosed is a letter from him to her, or some friend
I suppose of hers — and another from James to his
deltoboso.

If I have not already advised you of it, it is necessary
now to do so, that Mrs. Stuart has paid for the tickets
you purchased for her and Mrs. Alexander that was.

When you can get at the last letter or letters of the
Count de Estaing to me, I wish you would send me a
transcript of what he says, or whether any thing of
a Bust he has sent me, of Mr. Necker, together with a
number of Prints of that Gentleman and the Marquis
de la Fayette, which are come to my hands in a pack-
age from Baltimore.

We all join in best wishes for you and Mrs. Lear and
I am

Your sincere friend

And affectionate servt.

No. 7.

MOUNT VERNON, Octr. roth. 1790.
Dear Sir,

Your letters of the 26th. & 3oth.of the last & 3d. of
the present month have come duly to hand.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 17

Without entering into the details, I can assure you
that I am perfectly satisfied with the steps you have
taken respecting the vessel which is to bring the furni-
ture and servants to Philadelphia — with your agree-
ment with Mr. Macomb & whatever you shall do with
the houses I was compelled to build on his Lots — with
your conduct towards and agreement with Mr. and
Mrs. Hyde — and with your taking the carpeting from
Barry and Rogers, although it arrived much after the
time it ought, by agreement, to have been delivered.
As Mr. Macomb will, more than probable, get the houses
for little or nothing, you acted very properly, I think,
in taking down the closets, partitions and fixtures,
which I purchased of the French Minister, and which
would have been equally convenient to him, rather
than increase his gains at my loss. If the vessel can
bring them, they can unquestionably be made useful
in our intended habitation — if not, they will probably
fetch something.

The easy and quiet temper of Fanny is little fitted I
find for the care of my niece Harriot Washington who
is grown almost, if not quite a woman, & what to do
with her at the advanced size she is arrived at, I am
really at a loss. Her age (just turned of 14) is not too
great for a boarding school, but to enter now with any
tolerable prospect, the Mistress of it must not only be
respectable, but one who establishes and will enforce
good rules. She is prone to idleness, and having been
under no controul, would create all the difficulty. I have
formed no resolution respecting what will be proper
for me to do with her, but that I may the better judge,
I request that you will enquire whether there be a prop-
er School (for her to board at) in Philadelphia. If so,
whether there are at it genteel girls of her size & age —
who the mistress of it is, — what her character — terms,
&ca, are — the numbers of it — who of the principal fami-

i8 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

lies, and how they are entertained and accommodated?
I have not intimated any thing of this matter to Har-
riot yet, who if it should be, would I dare say be a good
deal alarmed, as she had I dare say rather mix with
other company than be in a boarding school. Among
other things enquire what is taught at these schools.
I must further desire, that in pursuing your enquiries
after a School for Washington, particularly if one is to
be found in the College at Philadelphia fit for him, that
you would extend them to the reputation of the higher
branches in that Seminary, & whether much good could
be expected from my fixing my Nephews George &
Lawrence in it. From what I can find, they are doing
but little in Alexandria, having left the study of the
languages, & indeed Mr. McWhir, & are learning French
& the Mathematics under a Mr. Harron. George &
indeed Lawrence, I am told, are well disposed youths,
— neither of them wanting capacity; and both, es-
pecially the first, very desirous of improvement. I
would wish to know what their studies and board would
stand them annually — in a word, the best estimate
(exclusive of clothes) of the expense of fixing them at
that place.

As I have had no account yet of what has been done,
or is doing to our new habitation, or what ideas to an-
nex to Mr. Morris's information to you that the House
would not be ready for your reception before the roth,
of the present month, I should be glad to receive a full
statement of these matters as soon as you arrive at
Philadelphia & have time to look into things.

We all join in best wishes for you & Mrs. Lear — and
for your — and the safe arrival of everything in
Philadelphia.

With sincere regard and affection
I am Yrs.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 19

No. 8

MOUNT VERNON, Octr. 27th. 1790.

Dear Sir,

On Sunday last I returned from a twelve days ex-
cursion up the Potomack, and found your letters of
the 6th. & loth, from New York and i4th.& i7th. from
Philadelphia. I am very glad to hear that you are all
arrived at the latter place safe, and the furniture, as
you conceive, in good order. It was very right to give
John's wife the same privilege that was allowed to
others, and Mr. and Mrs. Hyde's coming in the stage is
equally agreeable to me.

I have no particular directions to give respecting
the appropriation of the furniture. By means of the
Bow windows, the back rooms will become the largest,
and of course will receive the furniture of the largest
dining and drawing Rooms, and in that case, although
there is no closet within the former, there are some in
the Steward's room directly opposite, which are not
inconvenient; or (but here I am speaking somewhat
at random, not knowing to what use it has hitherto
been applied) there is a small room adjoining the Kitch-
en (by the Pump) that might, if it is not essential for
other purposes, be appropriated for the Images, save
china, and other things of this sort, which are not in
common use. Mrs. Morris, who is a notable lady in
family arrangements, can give you much information
in all the conveniences about the house and buildings ;
and I dare say would rather consider it as a Compli-
ment to be consulted in these matters (as she is so near)
than a trouble to give her opinion of them, or in put-
ing up any of the fixtures, as the house is theirs, and
will revert to them, with the advantages or disadvan-
tages which will result from the present establishment
of things i I am very glad you pressed them not to

20 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

incommode themselves by an inconvenient remove —
we are very happy to hear of her recovery and request
you to present our Compliments of congratulation to
her & Mr. Morris on the occasion.

I am very anxious to have the rent which I am to
pay for my new residence ascertained before I take up
my quarters in it — you will perceive by the enclosed
answer to a letter I wrote to Mr. Morris on the subject
that this point is yet unsettled. Previous to my ap-
plication to Mr. Morris, I was informed by the Com-
mittee, with whom I had conversed on the subject,
that it was well understood I was to pay rent. I
have therefore to request that you will get the
matter fixed in some way or other with them.
A just value I am willing to pay — more I have
no idea will be asked, but my fears rather are that they
want to make it the expence of some public body
(which I shall not consent to) and that they do not
care to avow it.

If the servants can be conveniently accommodated
without using the Stable loft, it will certainly be much
the best & safest; for I am certain no orders given to
my people wd. restrain them from carrying lights if
they were to be in it as lodgers.

I send you a letter with the Bill of loading for wines
shipped by Fenwick Mason &c., which if arrived you
will give the necessary orders about. By return of the
person who carries this and other letters to the Post
office in Alexandria, I expect to receive accounts of
later date than the 1 7th. from you, and possibly some-
thing more indicative of Peace or War between Spain
& England which has hung long in suspence.

Our best wishes attend you and Mrs. Lear, and
I am Dear Sir

Your affectionate friend

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 21

No. 9.

MOUNT VERNON, Octr. 3ist. 1790.

Dear Sir,

I have reed, your letter of the 24th. since the date
of my last to you, and am very glad to hear that the
most valuable parts of the furniture have borne their
transportation without receiving damage, and that
your expectation of equal success respecting the re-
mainder is sanguine. I am pained, however, to find
there is a doubt that the house will not be completely
finished and ready for our reception towards the latter
end of next month. At all times this would be at-
tended with inconvenience, but at that season and
while Congress are in session, it would be exceeding so.
As the Pagoda can be put up in half an hour, at any
time, it may (if not already disposed of) remain un-
fixed, until we arrive, and that I may be in Philadel-
phia in time, it is my present intention to leave this
place on Monday, the 226.. of next month. I could not
clearly understand Colo. Van Home when I applied to
him (as I came through Baltimore) for a proper and
convenient Stage Coach for part of the family to return
in. He said he could provide and would provide and so
on, but although he wanted to convey the idea of a cer-
tain reliance on him it did not appear clear to me, that
I could rely on him for more than the common Stage
Coach or Waggon ; — this being the case, and the Driver
who brought us hither being desirous of coming for us
again, adding that he could always get a freight to
Alexandria, induces me to request that you would, as
his was a large and roomy close coach, his horses good
& himself a careful driver, make enquiry (without en-
tering into an engagement with the proprietor) wheth-
er the same Coach, horses & man could be had, and
whether he would positively engage to be here on the

22 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

2oth. or 2 1 et. of Novr. if after hearing from you, I
should request it. The terms on which he would come
must be explicity defined, that I may, without delay,
return a precise answer. You will readily perceive
that I do not mean to place my sole dependence upon
this Stage. No : I shall by this conveyance also write
to Colo. Van Home to know what absolute dependence
may be placed on him. Thus having two Strings to
my bow I may chuse the one which promises best.
You will readily perceive also that there is no time to
spare in my hearing from you — you from me — and for
the Coach to be here in time. Colo. Biddle can point
you to the man, who ought to know that his terms
should be moderate, because Colo. Van Home's (as
Horses will go from Stage to Stage only) must be lower
than the last Trip cost me.

I should conceive that a wreath round the crests
that will be on the pannels of the Coach would be more
correspondent with the Seasons which will remain
thereon, than the motto. And that the motto on such
of the Plates as require it, upon the Harness, would be
best; — but as this is mere matter of opinion, unac-
companied with a view of the work, I am so far from
being tenacious of it, that I shall leave it to you and
him (Clarke) to adopt which of the two shall appear
best, when the whole is taken into one view. What
appearance does the Coach assume at present? — and
how will it look when finished ?

Are Mrs. Brodeau's terms, such as do actually exist,
or does she mean to avail herself of the occasion to com-
mence a new era in them? They (especially the Board)
appear to be high. Pray without giving any expec-
tation of Harriot to either, for I have decided nothing
respecting her, — know what are Mrs. Pine's terms.
Mrs. Brodeau was I understand once of Mr. Morris's
family; this, may occasion a predilection in that quar-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 23

ter. Mrs. Pine's standing in that way not being long,
little may be said of her on that account, but she may
be equally capable & possibly more respectable than
the other.

Let me know what answer was given to, or notice
taken of, the Extract you have sent me, from the letter
of Count de Estaing when he was written to on the sub-
ject. I fear I might not have been sufficiently polite
& thankful for his present, — as the thing itself has en-
tirely escaped me, — & the box with the prints scarcely
brought any recollection of the circumstance to my
mind.

I have heard nothing yet of Capt. Vance, but am
glad you sent the sugar. By mistake a letter from
James Tilghman, Esqr. respecting a legacy to Miss
Anderson from Colo. Colvill, was enclosed to you in my
last, which I desire may be returned in your next,
after the receipt of this, as I shall want to answer,
even if I cannot comply with it.

As we shall have new connections to form with dif-
ferent Tradesmen, find out those in each branch who
stand highest for skill and fair dealing. 'Tis better to
be slow in chusing than to be under the necessity of
changing — and that it may be done upon sure grounds,
compare one acct. with another (for partialities, per-
haps less laudable motives, mix very much in all these
things), and see where the preponderancy is.

We all join in best wishes for you and Mrs. Lear &
with affectionate regard I am

Your sincere friend

No. 10.

MOUNT VERNON, Novr. ;th. 1790.
Dear Sir,

Your letters of the 28th. and 3ist. ulto. are now be-

34

fore me, and the parts of them wch. require it shall be
answered.

If the Schools in the College are under good masters,
and as fit for boys of Washington's standing as a private
School, I am still of opinion (for the reasons mentioned
in a former letter) that he had better be placed there in
the first instance. The propriety however of this will
depend, ist. upon the character & ability of the master,
under whose tuition he will be — 2d., upon the police
& discipline of the School — and 3dly., upon the num-
ber of boys, — for I lay it down as a maxim, that if the
number of the pupils is too great for the tutors, justice
cannot be done, be the abilities of the latter what they
will. What the due proportion beyond which it ought
not to go, is in some measure matter of opinion, but an
extreme must be obvious to all, and you will easily de-
cide upon it, in your own mind, if nothing should be
finally resolved upon by me previous to my arrival.

Enclosed I send you a letter from Mr. Gouvr. Morris
with the Bill of Cost of the articles he was to send me.
The prices of the plated ware exceed — far exceed the
utmost bounds of my calculations; but as I am per-
suaded he has done what he conceives right, I am sat-
isfied and request you to make immediate payment to
Mr. Constable if you can raise the means, — the duties
are also to be paid. You will see by the enclosed (left
open for your perusal) that I have promised this.
Ought not the sum remitted by Colo. Humphreys to
Mr. Morris to be deducted? Make this without creat-
ing any difficulty, the subject of arrangement with
Mr. Constable. As these coolers are designed for warm
weather, & will be, I presume, useless in cold, or in that
which the liquors do not require cooling, — quere,
would not a stand like that for Castors, with four aper-
tures for as many different kinds of liquors, just suffi-
cient (each aperture) to hold one of the cut decanters

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 25

sent by Mr. Morris, be more convenient for passing the
bottles from one to another, than handing each bottle
separately, by which it often happens that one bottle
moves, another stops, & all are in confusion? Two of
these, one for each end of the table, with a flat bottom,
with or without feet (to prevent tilting), open at the
sides but with a raised rim as Castors have and an up
right, by way of handle in the middle, could not cost
a great deal were they made wholy of Silver. Talk to
a Silver Smith and know the cost — and whether they
could be immediately made — if required in a handsome
fashion. Perhaps the Coolers sent by Mr. Morris may
afford Ideas of taste ; perhaps too (if they are not too
heavy when examined) they may supercede the ne-
cessity of such as I have described, by answering the
purpose themselves. Four double flint glasses (such as
I expect Mr. Morris has sent) will weigh I conjecture four
pounds ; the wine in them when full will be 8 Ibs. more.
These added to the weight of the Coolers will, I fear,
make these latter too unwieldy to pass, especially by
ladies, which induced me to think of a frame in the
form of Castors — which, by being open at bottom,
would save silver.

I approve, at least till inconvenience or danger shall
appear, of the large Table ornaments (images) remain-
ing on the side boards, and of the Pagoda's standing
in the smallest drawing Room, as you may have fixed
it. Had I delivered any sentiment from here respect-
ing the fixture, that is the apartment I should have
named for it. Whether the green which you have, —
or a new yellow Curtain, should be appropriated to the
Stair Case above the Hall, may depend upon your
getting an exact match in colour &c. of the latter.
For the sake of appearances one would not, in instances
of this sort, regard a small additional expense.

If the servants can be accommodated without the

26 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

rooms, which were intended for them at the end of the
Hall, the use you propose to put them to. is certainly
a good one But what is to become of Fidas and James's
Wives ? Is it not their wishes to have their wives (if they
incline to act as house maids) with them? And will
not the contrary be a foundation for the loss of their
husbands?

I hope my Study (that is to be) will be in readiness
against I arrive. And if the rubbish and other litter
occasioned by the People of Mortar & the Carpenters
is at a Stand, — I wish that every thing of the sort may
be removed, and the yard made and kept as clean as
the Parlour. That was always the case in Mr. Morris's
time, and has become more essential now as the best
Rooms are now back, and an uninterrupted view from
them into the yard and kitchen which is nearly upon a
level with the dining Room.

I am really sorry on public as well as private accounts
— to hear of Mr. Hare's loss. You would do well to
lay in a pretty good stock of his, — or some other Porter.
As Mrs. Washington writes to Mrs. Lear, I shall add
my best wishes to her only & affectionate regards to
you — being

Your sincere friend

No. u.

MOUNT VERNON, Novr. loth. 1790.

Dear Sir,

Your letter of the 4th. with a Postscript of the 5th.,
came to my hands this moment that is on 9 o'clock on
Wednesday night, — and this ansr., if the bearer of it
obeys my orders will go off for Alexandria before day in
the morning. The intention of it is to desire that Page's
Coach, Horses & driver, may be at this place in time for
me to commence my journey for Philadelphia on Mon-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 27

day the 22d. of this month. He will be allowed six days
(which is one more than it will take him to come) pre-
vious to that day — and as many days after (the 22d.
included) as I shall be on the road. I now depend
upon the conveyance — & shall only add in this letter
that I am your friend and —

Affectionate Servt.

No. 12.

MOUNT VERNON, Novr. i2th. 1790.

Dear Sir,

I am about to write you another short letter for to-
morrow's post, — although, in the course of the Mail,
it cannot reach you before Tuesday night. The in-
tention of it is, to inform you again that I depend upon
Page's Coach, Horses and driver, — for the removal
of the children &ca., to Philadelphia, and that I shall
not, unless I hear something to the contrary, from you,
make any other provision for the journey. The reason
for my again writing on this subject is that Giles who
was sent from this on Wednesday, and directed if the
stage had left Alexandria, to pursue it to George Town,
and to have my letter to you deposited in the mail, in-
stead of doing it gave the letter to one of the passengers
a man he did not know — one who had so comical a
name that he does not recollect it, tho' told — but who
knew me — knew you — knew Major Jackson — and who
was so anxious to oblige that he all but demanded the
letter from him. The case being thus and knowing
how little dependence there is upon conveyances by
private hands is the inducement of this second Epistle
— and for my desiring you to inform me by the first
Post — what I have to depend upon — for the mail re-
turning will (if it leaves Philadelphia on Wednesday)
be in Alexandria before Page's Coach, admitting my

28 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

first letter met with no delay. I shall add no more at
this time — the house being full of Company — than our
best wishes to you & Mrs. Lear — and that
I am Yr. Affecte.

No. 13.

MOUNT VERNON, Novr. i4th. 1790.

(Private)

Dear Sir,

Having wrote two letters to you on the subject of
Page's stage coach (one or the other of which if not
both, it is presumable will certainly have got to hand
before this can) I shall add no more thereto, than that
the Coach of Page is now my dependence.

I am, I must confess, exceedingly unwilling to go
into a house without first knowing on what terms I do
it, and wish that this sentiment could, in a delicate
way, be again hinted to the parties concerned with me.
I cannot, if there are no latent motives which govern
in the case, see any difficulty in the business. Mr.
Morris has most assuredly formed an idea of what
ought — in equity — to be the rent, of the tenement in
the condition he left it; and with this aid the Comee.,
I conceive, ought to be as little at a loss in determining
on the terms it should rent for, with the additions and
alterations which are about to be made, — presumably
in a plain and neat manner, — not by any means in an
extravagant style; because the latter is not only con-
trary to my wishes, but would, in reality, be repug-
nant to my interest and convenience; — principally,
because it would be the means of keeping me from the
use and comforts of the house to a later day ; and be-
cause the furniture & every thing else would require to
be accordant therewith, — besides its making me pay

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 29

an extravagant price perhaps to suit the taste of others
— to comply with unreasonable charges of the work-
men— or to be taxed with the blended expences of the
two houses (if they some times work at one and some
times at the other). I do not know, nor do I believe
that any thing unfair is intended by either Mr. Morris
or the Committee ; — but let us for a moment suppose
that the Rooms (the new ones I mean) should be hung
with tapestry — or a very rich & costly paper (neither
of wch. would suit my present furniture — that costly
ornaments for the bow windows — extravagant chim-
ney pieces, &c. &c. — were to be provided — that work-
men were to charge a pound for that which ought not
to cost ten Shillings; — and that advantage would be
taken of the occasion to new paint every part of the
house — buildings &c., would there be any propriety in
adding ten or 12 J P Cent for all these to the Rent of
the House in its original state, for the two years that
I am to hold it? If the solution of these questions are
in the negative, wherein lyes the difficulty of determin-
ing that the Houses and lots, when completed agree-
ably to the plan proposed, ought to Rent for so much?
After all is done that can be done the residence will not
be so commodious as the house I left in New York (with
the buildings I added) for there (and the want of it at
Mr Morris's will found a serious inconvenience) my
office was in a front Room below, where persons on
business immediately entered; whereas in the present
case they will have to ascend two pair of Stairs, and to
pass by the public rooms, as well as private Chambers,
to get to it; — notwithstanding which I am willing to
allow as much as was paid by Mr. Macomb, & shall say
nothing if more is demanded — unless there is apparent
extortion ; and that the policy of delay is to see to
what height Rents will tun before mine is fixed. In
either of these cases I should not be pleased ; — and to

30 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

occupy the premises at the expence of any public body—
I will not. There is one expression in your letter of the
4th. the meaning of which is somewhat doubtful, —
viz. — ''The additions repairs &c. of the house in
"which Mr. Morris now lives are likewise to be com-
"prehended in the expenditures, to be refunded by the
"rent in this house. " Is it meant by this that the rent
of the House I am to go into is to be increased by the
expenditures on the one Mr. Morris has removed to,
or, that the rent of the first is to be considered as se-
curity only for payment of the latter? If this is all I
have naught to say against it, — but dire necessity only
would induce me to submit to the other. We all unite
in best wishes for you & Mrs. Lear — and

I am Your Sincere and Affecte. friend

No. 14.

MOUNT VERNON, Novr. i;th. 1790.
Dear Sir,

I am just setting off for Alexandria — bad as the day
is — to a dinner given by the Citizens of that place to
me ; — and hope by the mail of this evening to be placed
upon some certainty with respect to Page's Stage
Coach, and that my Journey to Philadelphia may, as
was intended, commence on Monday next the 226..

Upon examining the Caps of Giles and Paris I find
they (especially Paris's) are much worn, and will be un-
fit to appear in with decency, after the journey from
hence is performed, I therefore request that you will
have two handsome ones made, with fuller and richer
tassels at top than the old ones have. That the maker
of them may have some government in the size the en-
closed dimentions of their heads, will I presume be
sufficient. As the addition of a pair of leading Harness
to the Coach will not greatly enhance the aggregate cost
I wish, in order that the whole may be of a piece, that

you would order Clarke to make a set* for the two lead-
ers (with a Postillion Saddle, the Saddle cloth of which
to be the same as the Hammel Cloth with the same
lace) that I may have Harness alike for Six Horses
when the Coach is used — with that number.
I am Yr. Affecte.

No. 15.

MOUNT VERNON, Novr. 2 and. 1790.
Dear Sir, 1

The day is come, and the hour at hand, or very
nearly — when our journey will Commence for Phila-
delphia. From the Stage drivers account, the Roads
in places, especially between George Town and Balti-
more, are almost impassible. This circumstance, and
the desire of not injuring my horses, will make my
movements very slow, — and they may be precarious
as Giles is very unwell, — and my bungling Smith, has
lamed one of the Horses that draw the Waggon in
shoeing him.

I think Mr. Page judged very wisely in not sending
his new Coach for me. I thank him for offering to
send it to meet me, at Chester, but as it is my wish &
intention to enter the City without any Parade or no-
tice, the old Coach will answer the purposes of the New
One.

Austin and Hercules go on in this day's Stage, and
will unquestionably arrive several days before us.
Richmond and Christopher embarked Yesterday by
Water, — the former (not from his appearance or merits
I fear, — but because he was the son of Hercules and
his desire to have him as an assistant) comes as a
scullion for the kitchen.

Your mare shall receive the same usage, care, & at-
tention, that my Brood Mares do; and you are very

32 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

welcome to the Jack. She may remain yours or be
mine at your own price, as is most agreeable to your-
self.

I fear from the accts. you have transmitted of the
state of the buildings & repairs of the House I am to
occupy, that I shall be exceedingly incommoded. I
shall have twelve horses with me, if nothing therefore
is done to the Stables, Hiltzimer's must be engaged
for such as cannot stand in my own. I have only time
to adjoin best wishes — and that I am
Yr. Affecte.

No. 16.

SPURRIER'S, Novr. 2$d. 1790.

Dear Sir,

With some difficulty (from the most infamous Roads
that ever were seen) we have got to this place, and are
waiting dinner; but have no expectation of reaching
Baltimore to night.

Dunn has given such proofs of his want of skill in
driving that I find myself under a necessity of looking
out for another Coachman. Before we got to Eliza-
beth Town we were obliged to take him from the Coach
and put him to the Waggon. This he turned over
twice ; — and this morning was found much intoxicated.
He has also got the horses into a habit of stoping.

Mrs. Washington's predilection for Jacob is as strong
as my prejudice and fears are great. Yet in your en-
quiries after a Coachman, ask something concerning
Jacob. He wanted much it seems to return to us
whilst we were in Philadelphia.

The stage is this instant starting & I can only add —
that I am Yrs.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 33

No. 17.

BLADENSBURG, March 27th. 1791.
Dear Sir,

My attention was so much occupied the days pre-
ceeding my departure from Philadelphia, with matters
of a public nature, that I could scarcely think of those
which more immediately related to my own.

Who the Steward and house keeper shall be, must
be left to Mrs. Washington and yourself to determine
from circumstances, & the offers that are made. Fran-
cis, unless Holker's man could be unexceptionably
obtained, I should prefer for reasons I have already
mentioned to you; — but be him or tfhem whom they
may, it must be expressly understood, that wine is not
admissable at their Table. If it is so under any pre-
tence whatever, it will terminate as the permission
given Hyde has done. It would be well in all other
respects to have a clear definition of the expectations
and obligations of the Parties, that mistakes may not
happen. If Frauncis should be employed, it ought to
be made known to him that his services in the kitchen
as usual, will be expected, & that in case of the present
Cook's leaving me, or attempting to raise his wages;
— that he is to do with Hercules & such under aids as
shall be found indispensably necessary, nay, further,
that if upon trial he finds, as I am sure is the case, that
we can do without Vicars, he may be discharged. How
far, under present circumstances, the dutch Girl in the
Kitchen, is necessary, you must Judge of, and act ac-
cordingly. As Jacob's wife is brought into the family,
the new Landry women will go out of Course.

I wish you would have all the packages moved out
of the Garden and have it kept in complete order, at my
expence and the paved yard, also : — Rhemer and Jacob
are certainly competent to this business. The top of
One of the Urns in the Garden was broke off by its fall-

34 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

ing. I made John Mauls carry it to Mr. Hyde, let it
be cemented on again.

Furnish Mrs. Washington with what money she may
want — and from time — to time — ask her if she does want,
as she is not fond of applying As I write in haste, I
shall no more at this time but my best wishes for Mrs.
Lear &c. For the history of our travels and adventures
so far I refer to a letter I wrote to Mrs. Washington, —
from Anapolis Yesterday. I am Your Sincere and

Affectionate friend

No. 18.

GEORGE TOWN, MARCH 28th. 1791.
Dear Sir,

Late this afternoon your letters of the 23d. & 24th.
instant came to hand, and as the Mail is about to be
closed (leaving this before Sun-rise in the morning) I
shall, as I must, be short.

I return some letters to be filed: — one from Colo.
Blaine to be given to Genl. Knox, to be acted upon as
he pleases; — he is as well acquainted with the man as
I am, and knows the want of such a character better
than I do; — another letter from Colo. Cannon which I
may venture to say proves him to be, what I will not
call him, and that I need never look for any Rent from
him. I pray you to say to him, if he does come to Phil-
adelphia during my absence — that his own statement
given at New York — does not justify his prest. report
— and that I am too well acquainted with the prices of
grain & the demand for it last year in his own neigh-
bourhood, to be imposed upon by such a tale as his let-
ter exhibits. In a word that I am by no means satis-
fied with his treatment of me; — for sure I am I shall
get nothing from him but assurances of improvements,
whilst he is either applying my rents to his own use, or

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 35

suffering the Servants to go free from the payment of
them. /

One of the Pads of the Waggon harness, it seems,
was left at Mr. Clark's : send it by the Stage to Alexan-
dria ; — if it comes too late the matter will not be great.
I am not able to say yet how long I shall be detained
at this place where I arrived before breakfast this
morning.

I am Yr. Affecte.

P. S.

I send with my best remembrance, a Sermon for Mrs.
Wn. I presume it is good coming all the way
from New Hampshire, but do not vouch for it — not
having read a word of it. It was one of your enclosures.

No. 19.

MOUNT VERNON, April 3d. 1791.
Dear Sir,

Since my last to you from George Town, I have I
believe reed, your letters of the 23d. 24th. and 27th.
Ult.

Whether a certain Gentleman is the man I con-
ceived him to be, or such a one as is hinted at in the
letter you enclosed me, is not yet certain, but admit-
ting the latter it is too late to look back. I cannot be
in a less productive situation by the engagement than
I was ; the principal disadvantage resulting from it will
be, that I can never count upon the payments until
they are actually made, — consequently can never
speculate upon the money which I wished to have
done. If I recollect rightly there is something in Colo.
Cannon's letter (transmitted to you) concerning the
Kanhi^wa Lands; it it is indicative ot an intention to
let them, or that he conceives himself empowered to do
it — I desire you will inform him of the sale ot them.

36 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

You did well in forwarding the letters from the West-
ern Territory, although they were upon opening of them
found to be laws only.

Until we can restrain the turbulence and disorderly
conduct of our borderers it will be in vain I fear to ex-
pect peace with the Indians — or that they will govern
their own people better than we do ours.

Mr. Jefferson's idea with respect to the dispatches
for me, is a very good one, and I desire it may be put
into Execution. I send you some letters to file, not find-
ing it convenient to be incumbered with them on my
journey. My best wishes attend Mrs. Lear — and I am
Yr. Sincere friend & Affecte. Servt.

No. 20.

MOUNT VERNON, April 6th. 1791

Dear Sir,

Your letters of the 3ist Ult. and ist. Inst. have been
received. To morrow I continue my journey. A re-
quest of Genl. Knox's (consequent of Colo. Lee's de-
clining his appointment) to name Officers for the Colin,
of levies to be raised in Berkley &c. has prevented
its being done Sooner.

I am perfectly satisfied that every necessary and
proper step will be taken to procure a good Steward, —
& a good house keeper — & therefore, shall add nothing
further on this head. Let the man who is at work in ye
Garden or has been there, be paid — I mean to be under
no obligations to any one.

The pad arrived in good time and I expect my horses
(as they seem well recruited) will go on better than
they have come. I send more letters to be filed. My
best wishes attend Mrs. Lear & the child — and I am
Sincerely & Affectionately

Yrs.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 37

No. 21.

RICHMOND, April i2th. 1791.

Dear Sir,

Since my last to you from Mount Vernon, your let-
ters of the 3d. and 5th. Instant have been reed., the
last at this place where I arrived yesterday to dinner.

If the case is as you suspect, it is expedient and prop-
er to remove Washington to a School in which he will
make some progress in his learning; and that it is so,
I have had suspicions for some time, principally on ac-
count of his fondness of going to the College. Boys of
his age are better pleased with relaxed discipline — and
the inattention of their tutors, than with conduct that
brings them forward. It would have been highly
pleasing to me ( for the reasons, which I have often ex-
pressed) to have continued Washington at the College,
but, if after the enquiries you have made, it should ap-
pear, that there is either incompetency in the masters
from the number of boys in the School, or from other
causes, I will not waste his time in compliment to that
Seminary, — but before you finally decide on this matter,
it is my wish as Colo. Hamilton, Genl. Knox and the
Attorney-General have sons in the same predicament
(if they are not removed) that you would consult and
act in Concert with them; & I shall be satisfied in
whatever is done in consequence of it. And should
like to have him at the same School that Hamilton's
son goes to.

The Attorney-General's case and mine I conceive,
from a conversation I had with him respecting our
Slaves, is some what different. He in order to qualify
himself for practice in the Courts of Pennsylvania, was
obliged to take the Oaths of Citizenship to that State;
whilst my residence is incidental as an Officer of Gov-
ernment only, but whether among people who are in

38 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

the practice of enticing slaves even where there is no
colour of law for it, this distinction will avail, I know not,
and therefore beg you will take the best advise you can
on the subject, and in case it shall be found that any
of my Slaves may, or any for them shall attempt their
freedom at the expiration of six months, it is my wish
and desire that you would send the whole, or such part
of them as Mrs. Washington may not chuse to keep,
home — f or although I do not think they would be bene-
fitted by the change, yet the idea of freedom might be
too great a temptation for them to resist. At any
rate it might, if they conceived they had a
right to it, make them insolent in a State of Slav-
ery. As all except Hercules and Paris are dower
negroes, it behoves me to prevent the emancipation of
them, otherwise I shall not only loose the use of them,
but may have them to pay for. If upon taking good
advise it is found expedient to send them back to Vir-
ginia, I wish to have it accomplished under pretext
that may deceive both them and the Public; — and
none I think would so effectually do this, as Mrs. Wash-
ington coming to Virginia next month (towards the
middle or latter end of it, as she seemed to have a wish
to do) if she can accomplish it by any convenient and
agreeable means, with the assistance of the Stage
Horses &c. This would naturally bring her maid and
Austin — and Hercules under the idea of coming home
to Cook whilst we remained there, might be sent on in
the Stage. Whether there is occasion for this or not
according to the result of your enquiries, or issue the
thing as it may, I request that these Sentiments and
this advise may be known to none but yourself & Mrs.
Washington. From the following expression in your
letter " that those who were of age might follow the ex-
4 'ample of his (the Attorney's people) after a residence
"of six months" — it would seem thatwone could apply

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 39

before the end of May — &that the non age of Christo-
pher, Richmond & Oney is a bar to them.

I offer Mrs. Lear the child and yourself my best wish-
es— and with Sincere Esteem I am

Your Affecte. friend

No. 22.

NEWBURN, No. CARA Aprl. 2ist. 1791.
Dear Sir,

Not having heard from you since I wrote to you from
Richmond, the purpose of this is only to let you know
where we are, and to cover the enclosed for Mrs. Wash-
ington.

We have, all things considered, come on tolerably
well, yet, some of the horses, especially the two last
bought — are not a little worsted by their journey, &
the whole if brought back, will not cut Capers as they
did at setting out.

I came to this place yesterday and shall proceed on
tomorrow. Wilmington 100 Miles from hence will be
my next halting place, from whence if the Post of this
evening brings letters to me, they will be answered, for
there will be no time to do it here, as not more than an
hour is allowed him to stay. My best wishes to Mrs.
Lear.

I am Yr Sincere & Affecte. friend
P. S.

The Post is just arrived without any letters for me.

No 23.

SAVANNAH, May i3th. 1791.
Dear Sir,

1 have not I believe written to you since I left Rich-
mond. At Charles Town — towards the last of my stay
there — I reed, your letters of the loth. & i$th. of April,
but the continual hurry into which I was thrown — by

40 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

entertainments — visits — and ceremonies of one kind
or another, scarcely allowed me a moment that I coud
call my own — nor is the case much otherwise here.

No letters, North of Virginia will now reach me until
I arrive at Fredericksburg in that State, which is the
first place at which I shall strike the line of the Post.
There are no cross Posts on this side Alexandria, and
the chances of letters getting to me by private hands,
as my rout back will be very wide of the Post Road, is
so unfavorable that I have ordered all letters to be
stopped at Charleston and sent back to the Post Office
in Fredericksburg to await my arrival there.

The silence of Frauncis is evidence sufficient, that
nothing is to be expected from him and if your prospects
with the other person (mentioned in your letter) are
no better, the plan suggested in your letter of the i4th.
may be tried, as the best expedient that offers. A
little experience (and there is time for it before the
meeting of Congress) will prove the Utility or inutility
of the Measure.

I came to this place on Thursday afternoon and shall
leave it to morrow, after attending the first church.
The Roads are abominably sandy and heavy — my
Horses (especially the two I bought just before I left
Philadelphia, and my old White Horse) are much worn
down, and I have yet 150 or 200 miles of heavy sand
to pass before I fairly get into the upper and firmer
Roads.

Offer my best wishes to Mrs. Lear. I hope the child
and yourself are in good health — I remain Your
Sincere & Affectionate friend

No. 24.

FREDERICKSBURG, June i2th. 1791.
Dear Sir,
Yesterday we arrived at this place in good health,

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 41

but with horses much worn down. To morrow I expect
to reach Mount Vernon — where even if my horses were
able to proceed I am obliged to remain till the 27th.
Instant — the day appointed by me at the last meeting,
to meet the Commissioners at George Town, in order to
fix on the Spot for the Public buildings, and for other
purposes arising from the residence act.

I have at this place reed, your letter of the 3oth.
Ulto. but none of an intermediate date between that of
the i $th. and it. Your directions to have them sent
cross wise the Country, was unlucky — first because
there are no cross Posts. — 2nd. because my rout back
was not irrevocably fixed — and 3d. because I had,
knowing these circumstances, directed from Charleston
all letters which might be following me, to be returned
to this place to await my call. The slow movement
of the mail in the three Southern States prevented (I
presume) these directions getting to Richmond before
the letters were forwarded to Taylor's Ferry, and my
crossing at Carter's (a ferry much higher up James
River) has been the cause or causes, I imagine of
missing them.

Being interrupted by visittors I shall postpone until
I arrive at Mount Vernon further communications,
the principal, indeed the only purpose of this letter
being to advise you of my arrival at this place, and of
my intended stay at Mount Vernon for the reasons
which I have assigned. My best wishes attend you,
Mrs. Lear, and the child & I am Sincerely and Affection-
ately

Yours

No. 25.

MOUNT VERNON, June i$th. 1791.
Dear Sir,

Your letter of the 29th. Ulto. I acknowledged the

42 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

receipt of from Fredericksburg, since which another of
the 5th. Inst. has been received.

The Commissions for Whitaker and Me. Dowell, were
properly issued, as those also are mentioned in your
letter of the 5th. and it was on my mind, that blank
commissions signed by me were left with you, for the
officers of the Revenue cutters. This not being the case,
quere — if there is not a necessity of sending some to me
for my signature, as I shall not leave this before the
2 7th., may be detained at George Town two or three days,
and must afterwards proceed slowly, on account of the
low condition of my horses. The Secretary of the
Treasury will be able to decide on this point, and I wish
you to act in the matter accordingly as he shall advise
you. I find another of the federal Judges (Hopkinson).
has by his death occasioned a vacancy in the District
of Pennsylvania. As some have and others will un-
questionably apply for the appointment, I wish you
would use every indirect means in your power to ascer-
tain the public opinion, with respect to the fittest char-
acter as a successor to Hopkinson. Pursue the same
mode to learn who it is thought would fill the present
Auditor's office (as he will be appointed Comptroller)
with the greatest ability and integrity. Several have
been brought to my view for the Comptroller's place
(who I suppose would accept of the Auditor's) as able
& meritorious Characters; among these are the names
of Mr .Richmond, the present Comptroller or Auditor of
Maryland, — Colo. Pickering — Mr. Kean — Colo. Dray-
ton, a Gentleman of So. Carolina, — Colo. Forest &
others.

It is hardly to be expected by the Trustees of any
College that complaints will not be made by the parents
or friends of the boys who go to it, if they conceive they
are neglected ; — and if Trustees mean to do their duty,
& Support the Reputation of the Seminary, they ought

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 43

I am sure to be thankful, for well founded Representa-
tions of neglect in the economy — police — or inattention
of the professors & teachers.

I am glad to hear that the affairs of our own family
are going on well — and it might not be improper to
hint to the Servants who are with you, (before they are
joined by those with me) that it will be very idle & fool-
ish in them to enter into any combination for the pur-
pose of supplanting those who are now in authority;
for the attempt in the first place will be futile & must
recoil upon themselves; and because admitting they
were to make the lives of the present Steward & house-
keeper, so uneasy as to induce them to quit, others
would be got to supply their places ; and such too, as
would be equally, if not more rigid in the exaction of
the duties required of servants. In a word, that these
Characters are indispensibly necessary to take trouble
off the hands of Mrs. Washington and myself & will be
supported ; any attempts therefore to Counteract them
in the line of their duty, whilst they act agreeably to
established rules, and their conduct is marked with
propriety, will be considered as the strongest evidence
they can give of their own unworthiness, & dispositions
to be lazy, if not dishonest. A good & faithful Servant
is never affraid or unwilling to have his conduct looked
into, but the reverse, because the more it is inspected
the brighter it shines. With respect to the other mat-
ters of a domestic nature mentioned in your letter of
the 5th. I shall postpone touching upon them until I
see you. We are suffering in these parts by a severe
drought. Grass is scarcely worth cutting — and Oats
if rain keeps off two or three days longer must be ruined.
Corn is bad, but it is too early in the year, to form an
opinion of the yield of it. Remember me to Mrs. Lear,
— and be assured of the Sincere esteem and friendship
of Yr Affecte.

44 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

No. 26.

MOUNT VERNON, June ipth. 1791.

Dear Sir,

Since my last to you (from this place) I have reed,
your letters of the i2th. immediately from Philadel-
phia, and those of the lyth. and 24th. of April, after
their having taken a trip to the Southward.

I find by Mrs. Washington's letters that Mr. Fraun-
cis is very desirous of introducing Mrs. Read, into
the family again ; this idea it would be well for him to
relinquish at once and forever ; for unless there are rea-
sons inducing it, which my imagination cannot furnish,
it never will happen. Hercules can ansr. every pur-
pose that Mrs. Read would do, and others which she
will not, and sure I am that the difference in the ex-
pence between the two will bear no comparison; —
besides supposing Mrs. Read to act fairly & honestly
(which by the by I do not suppose she is disposed to do
if she is not to be the absolute mistress of her own con-
duct— in a word uncontrouldble she would not remain
in the family a month. She would also encrease the
number, and of course, the expence of the second
Table, which under the administration of Mr. Hyde,
I believe was equal to the first (public days excepted).
But I hope it is a matter clearly understood by Mr.
Frauncis that wine is not to be used at it again, under
any pretence whatsoever, for there can be no line drawn
if it be once admitted, either as to the quantity or
quality, that will be drank at it.

By the last Post the letter of Messrs. Fenwick &
Mason, explanatory of the Wine from Charleston, was
forwarded to you and I should be glad to hear that the
wine was reed, in good order; for no attempts of that
house hitherto, seem to have succeded well so far as I
am concerned in them. The other Wine to Mr. Jef-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 45

ferson will I presume be divided, and settled for as soon
as he shall have returned from his Northern Tour.

Without going into the detail on the several points of
your letters I can assure you, that the measures, that
you have adopted with respect to Washington — George
and Lawrence — my black people & the employment
of Mr. Frauncis & Mr. Emmerson as far as they have
been communicated, meet my entire approbation, —
and I wish you to inculcate strongly upon the white
servants of the family (as mentioned in my last) that
it will be vain and idle in them to suppose, that by a
combination they will avoid their own duties — or can
effect the discharge of those, to whom the management
of the household business is committed. They must be
sensible that they have as high wages as are given to
any servants in their respective stations, — that they
are as well provided — & perhaps, better paid than most —
and no extra duties imposed upon them ; consequently
that if an attempt of this sort is made it will recoil upon
themselves. I shall communicate the same sentiments
to those who are with me that if they do sin it shall be
with their eyes open, and under a knowledge of the
Consequences.

As I shall have occasion for a number of Blankets
for my people this fall; and as the best time to pur-
chase them I am told is after the Winter's demand is
over, I should be glad if you would make a pretty dili-
gent enquiry after them, before I arrive; that I may
know whether and upon what terms I can get supplied.
It is probable I may want near two hundred.

The Major desires me to write for half a bushel of
Turnip seed of the best kind — viz. a peck of the white
Summer and other peck of the red Winter ; — but a good
Winter and a good Summer Turnip of any other kind,
I suppose, will do. It must be sent soon or both will
be useless.

46 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

I should like to see Mr. Payne's answer to Mr.
Burke 's Pamphlet ; if it is to be had and could be sent
off by the Post on Friday it would meet me at George
Town on Monday the 27th. where I shall be & from
whence I shall proceed ; — but on what day is more than
I am able to determine until I go there, and shall see
what is necessary to be done at that place, towards
carrying the law respecting the permanent residence
into effect. To do this there are many matters to de-
cide upon ; and some of them not a little difficult. It
is not very probable therefore that I shall leave George
Town before Thursday, but I would not have such de-
pendence placed on this, as to expect letters will meet
me there on Wednesday evening, especially as it is in
distant contemplation (if upon enquiry at George Town
it shall be found that the difference in the length of the
two roads is not great) to return by the way of
Frederick Town, York & Lancaster, to Philadelphia.

Paris has become so lazy, self willed, — and impudent
that John (the Coachman) has no sort of Government
of him; on the contrary, John says it was a maxim
with Paris, to do nothing he was ordered, and every
thing he was forbid. This conduct, added to the in-
capacity of Giles for a Postillion, who I believe will
never be able to mount a horse again for that purpose —
has induced me to find Paris some other employment
than in the Stables. Of course, I shall leave him at
home. A boy or two may be necessary — there to
assist about the horses, Carriages & Harness — but
these (dutch ones) it is possible may be had for their
victuals & clothes, — especially if there are large im-
portations from Germany (as some articles in the
papers say there will be). I mention the matter now
that in case arrivals should happen before I get back,
of these kind of people, you may be apprised of my
wishes : — low & squat (well made) boys would suit best.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 47

If emigrants are not to be had, there can be no doubt
but that some of the dutch servants in the family
could easily procure such as are wanted from among
the citizens— -& perhaps none readier or better than by
John himself when he arrives. Remember me to Mrs.
Lear — & be assured of the Esteem & Regard

Of Yr. Affecte.

No. 27.

MOUNT VERNON, June 26th. 1791.

Dear Sir,

This is the eve of my departure for George Town, and
being Sunday ought to have been a day of rest; — but
it is not so with me either from Company or business, —
the latter occasioned by a constant succession of Com-
pany during the whole of last week: — wch. obliged
me to postpone many matters until this day, which
ought, and but for that reason, would have been done
in the course of it. Such time as I have been able to
spend in my study to day has been employed in sort-
ing of the letters & papers which have been received
since I left Charleston, part of which I enclose, because
my traveling writing desk will not contain them.

I have but little leisure to say much in this letter, if
much (as I expect soon to be in Philadelphia) was nec-
essary. I presume all the letters which had been sent
to Taylor's Ferry & other places, have got to me — but
that you may judge, the following is a list of them —

April 3d. 5th. loth. isth. i7th. 24th.

May ist. 8th. isth. 22nd. 29th.

June 5th. i2th. i9th.

What my stay at George Town may be. is at present
beyond my ken, I go there prepared to proceed, and
shall make Hercules take the Waggon box in place of
Paris. From that place, so soon as I shall be able to

48 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

decide, on the day of my departure from it, & the rout,
I will inform you, or Mrs. Washington thereof.

I think it was a duty you owed Mrs. Lear your Moth-
er to meet her at New York for the purpose of accom*
panying her to Philadelphia. If she is still in that City
I request my respects may be presented to her. The
last Post came without the Commissions promised in
the P. S. to your letter of the igth. or any letter from
you. My best wishes attend Mrs. Lear &c. and I am
Yr. Affecte. Servt.

No. 28.

MOUNT VERNON, Septr. 23d. 1791.
Dear Sir,

Your letter of the i8th. with the Gazettes came duly
to hand, and I wish you to forward the latter (such as
were sent last) by Wednesday's and Friday's Post; in
which case they will arrive in Alexandria, on Mondays
and Fridays when I shall have a messenger at the Post-
Office in readiness to receive them. Accompany the
papers with occurrencies worthy of communication, if
any there be uncontained in them.

Let Mr. Page know that it shall depend upon his
carriage's being at George Town by Noon, on Tuesday
the 1 8th. of Octr. that I may be able to proceed Phila-
delphia-wards the same day. Mrs. Washington, the
children and the servants, will be there in readiness for
that purpose.

Favored with fine weather we had a pleasant Jour-
ney home, and arrived safe on Tuesday last. Mrs Stu-
art and her family were all here and well, and join us in
best wishes to you Mrs. Lear & Major Jackson.
Sincererely & affectionately,

I am Yrs.
P. S.

Christopher and the Black Smith got home before

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 49

us. The latter is trying his hand at some Mill work for
Evans, but I have had no apportunity yet of deciding
upon his skill.

Pray measure the height of the walls of the house you
are in, from the Cornice at the shingling of the roof to
the pavement, and give it to me in the first letter you
may write to me after the rect. of this.

No. 29.

MOUNT VERNON, Septr. 26th. 1791.

Dear Sir,

Since my last to you I have reed, your two letters of
the 2 1 st. Inst. — one dated in the morning, and the other
in the evening of that day.

What appeared to you to be the object of the formal
enquiries of Mr. Powell and the Mayor of the City — in
their late interrogations? Did they mean to convict Mr.
Gallatine of mis-representation — or me of an improper
interference in the building of a House for the Presi-
dent of the United States ? If the first Mr. Gallatine may
speak for himself; — if the latter I have no scruple in
declaring to those Gentlemen or to any others, that no
one has a right to publish sentiments as mine that were
never uttered, or conceived by me; especially too after
the reverse had been explicitly declared — to Mr. Fisher,
at his own request which was made as he professed to
answer a particular purpose. Previous to the above
communication to Mr. Fisher, I do not recollect that I
ever expressed a sentiment respecting the Public build-
ing. To a Pennsylvanian or one wishing to promote the
measure, I am certain I never did; — but afterwards
when I found my want of recommendation & conse-
quent dissatisfaction, was adduced as argument to sup-
port the measure, I was inclined that the following
truth should be known, first that I never had, since I

5o LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

got rid of the workmen expressed my dissatisfaction
with my accomodations. Secondly, that as I have
already made two expensive removals, and had not
long to remain in Office, I would not make a third, un-
less I was compelled to do it. And thirdly, under
these circumstances, and a thorough conviction that
the proposed building might be delayed and still erect-
ed in time for my successor. It was candid and fair to
make these sentiments known — especially as they were
accompanied with a pointed declaration that it was
only as the building regarded myself personally that
they were communicated, having no desire to inter-
meddle in the politics of the State.

I am glad you stated the matter in writing to Mr.
Powell. Sentiments and communications expressed
in that manner, cannot be misconceived, or misrep-
resented, from the want of recollection. I hope there
is no intention of adding near 50 Pr. Cent to the rent
of the house I occupy ; for I well remember my desiring
you to inform the Committee that I must and would
know upon what terms I was to Inhabit the House and
yt. you told me they had fixed the Rent at 500^ Pr.
Annum.

If you have not already made a purchase of Blankets,
I wish you to suspend doing it untill you hear from me
again. I am about to send this day to Alexandria,
where it is said large importations of this article have
been made, — to learn the qualities & price of the dutch
Blanketing. Sitgreaves' memo, is not explicit enough
to enable me to judge of the size or quality of his — the
only sort of them which are applicable to my use, are
inserted thus, — "Striped Duffells us/- to i8o/. Pr.
"Piece of 15 Blankets." — This brings the lowest of
these to 9/.& the highest to 12 /. each — which is high,
supposing them of the largest size, & of the first quality.
If you will mention in your next the length & breadth

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 51

of the different sizes & whether they are of the best
quality, I shall be better able to decide.

I do not recollect whether I mentioned to you in my
last, that the Major got home a day or two before us.
He is much better than he was, but not yet free from
the pain in his breast & Cough.

Mrs. Washington and all the family (which at present
is pretty numerous) join me in best wishes for yourself
Mrs. Lear, Majr. Jackson & the child.
I am, Dear Sir

Your sincere friend &

Affece. Servt.

No. 30.

MOUNT VERNON, Octr. 2d. 1791.

Dear Sir,

Since my last to you which I think was written on
this day week, I have reed, your letters of the 25th. &
27th. Ulto.

I am not yet able to speak decisively with respect
to the Blankets. Many have arrived, but not yet
opened in Alexandria. Mr. Wilson who has imported
ot them largely, at from s6/.to 757. Sterlg Pr Piece of
15 Blankets, has offered them to me at 70 P. Ct. but as
he cannot before they are opened, give the size, or
quality, it is impossible to say whether they will come
cheap or dear. I shall ascertain this matter before
Friday next, and will then write to you on the subject
again.

Letters and Papers from you by the Posts on Wed-
nesdays & Fridays will come to me as soon those which
may be forwarded on Mondays, as I do not send to the
office on Wednesdays, which is the day the mail arrives
there that leaves Philadelphia on Monday. Those

S2 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

which leave that place on Wednesday come in on Friday,
& the Friday's mail arrives on Monday and these are
the days I shall send up for letters &c.

I send two French letters to be translated, and
forwarded to me.

It is a little singular when considered on the score
of candor, that Mr. P — should suffer Mr. S — to as-
sert what he did in theS — without contradicting him; —
but the views and conduct of the City influence stands
in need of no developement in my mind. Nor have I
a much higher opinion of the candor of Mr. F — . He
is very welcome however, to the copy of the letter
you wrote Mr. P — and with which you furnished
him, as I wish the sentiments therein expressed
to be generally known, since the matter has been
introduced into the Legislature of the State, and
so unfairly stated as it appears to have been done
by both parties. The details you have given me
of this matter was very proper, and I am glad
you furnished me with them. It is quite right that I
should be made acquainted with these things.

I am very well satisfied with the determinations of
the Comee. respecting the Rent, and the time of its com-
mencing, and am glad of your expression to that effect.

How does the engraving of the Federal City advance?
Send me some of the first that are struck off and let the
others be disposed of as was agreed on. If you should
learn with certainty that the Minister of France is
coming to this place advise me of it, and when he sets
out.

All the family here are well except the Majr. who
seems to be in a poor way, and join me in best wishes
for you & yours & for Majr. Jackson. I am sincerely
and affectionately

Yrs.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 53

No. 31.

MOUNT VERNON, Octr. 7th. 1791.

Dear Sir,

Your letter of the 3oth. Ulto. came duly to hand with
the enclosures.

I have had samples of the Alexandria Blankets sent
me — the quality of them is not good, inferior to those
I had from Watson, & far very far indeed inferior to
those I used to import myself. The prices, length, &
breadth of three kinds are enclosed.

Messrs. Sitgreaves' give no length to their Blankets
and if Colo. Biddle has been accurate in his accounts,
& I understand him, the Blankets he has had offered to
him, however good in other respects, are intolerably
narrow. Under this view of the matter I am perplexed.
I by no means like the prices or quality of those Blan-
kets in Alexandria, and scarcely know what judgment
to form of those in Philadelphia, but if whilst hesita-
ting between the two I should miss both, it would be bad
indeed, as my people would in that case be in great dis-
tress the ensuing Winter. Upon the whole I have re-
solved to refer the matter once more to you with the
Alexandria prices & sizes (the quality you can only form
an opinion of from the description I ha ve already given)
of the Blankets in that place, and to request that you
& Colo. Biddle will endeavour to procure me the quan-
tity wanting — viz — 200; if upon comparison you shall
conceive I may be benefitted thereby. One hundred
of the largest size &best quality is required; — the other
hundred may be of the middle size but good in quality.
But in truth if I am to form an opinion of the sizes by
the accts. sent, the largest of them scarcely comes up
to my ideas of a middle sized Blanket. At all events
let me know by the Wednesday's Post after you re-

54 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

ceive this (and which will reach me only the day before
I leave home) what I have to trust to, as I should re-
gret a disappointment exceedingly.

I recollect asking you if among my Pamphlets you
had seen the journal of my tour to the French on La-
beauf in the Year 17 53? I understood you no; but Mrs.
Washington thinks you said yes. I have searched in
vain for it here. Pray decide this point between us.

As I shall have but little time between my return to
Philadelphia and the meeting of Congress, to arrange
matters for the Communications I shall have to make
at the opening of the Sessions — I desire that you will
(for my time is so much occupied here by Company &
the necessary attention to my domestic concerns, as
not to allow me time to do it) examine my speeches at
the opening of the three last Sessions of Congress and
compare the several matters recommended in them
with the Laws that have passed, noting the things rec-
ommended and not acted upon at all — as also the mea-
sures recommended and taken up by Congress but not
•finished; — such as the Militia Law &ca. that I may, by
seeing the state of the business, decide on the pro-
priety (as I am about to meet a new House of Repre-
sentatives) of bringing the same matters before Con-
gress again. It will do if this enquiry is completed
against my arrival, — and I pray you to be correct in
it. The Journals, or Mr. Beckley can inform you of
these cases which have been taken up, but never fin-
ished; & I wish you to ask at the Secretary of State's
office what has been the result of the enquries which
have issued from thence, in consequence of the resolve
of Congress, to ascertain the quantity & state of the
Lands ceded by No. Carolina.

I ought, when speaking of the Blankets, to have de-
sired if you make the purchase in Philadelphia to for-
ward them by the first vessel which is bound to Alexan-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 55

dria, as my negroes are all teazing me for them, & the
season will soon make them necessary

What progress does Mr. West make? and has he
learnt to write with more facility and ease than when
I left him?

Mrs. Washington requests you to get her six pieces

of Ginghams according to the enclosed memam. and

to send them along with the Blankets. She and all here

join in best wishes for you &ca. — And I am ever Yr.

Affte. frd. &c.

No. 32.

MOUNT VERNON, Octr. loth. 1791.
Dear Sir,

Your letters of the 2d. & sth. came to my hands on
Saturday morning. Yesterday I allotted to acknowl-
edge the receipt of them, — and to write several letters,
but Company coming in before breakfast, & from
thence till dinner, and early succession again to day —
I can do no more than say they came duly to hand, and
approve of your getting the Rooms (mentioned in your
letter of the 2d.) Painted. The passage above wants
it exceedingly; especially in & about the cross-pas-
sages, & I hope will receive a Coat.

I am Yrs. Affectionately

No. 33

MOUNT VERNON, Octr. i4th. 1791.
Dear Sir,

Your letter of the 9th. was forwarded tome, yester-
day morning by the Post master in Alexandria (having
sent no person to that place the evening before).

I am glad of the intimations given of the intentions
of the Minister of France — and pleased tho' distressed

S6 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

at the same time at the information, that the 24th.
Inst. is the day fixed on for the meeting of Congress.
I had no more Idea of this than I had of its being dooms
day. Supposing the 3ist. to be the day, I meant to
have spent Monday and possibly Tuesday at George
Town, & then to have proceeded leisurely on ; but as
the case is I shall endeavour to reach Bladensburg at
least the first night (that is Monday) and delay no time
on the Road afterwards that can be avoided, as I shall
have scarce any time to prepare my Communications
for the openg. of the Session on the 24th. if there
should be punctuality in the Members.

This unexpected event makes it more essentially
necessary, to look without delay and with accuracy
into the Speeches & Laws (at the past Sessions) agree-
ably to my former directions, that among other mat-
ters they may be considered of when I arrive. If any
thing else should have occurred to you, fit for recom-
mendation or communication in the Speech, note it,
that in case it should not be among my memorandams
it may be ready for consideration.

There is a mystery attending the engravg. of the
Federal City which I do not comprehend. It appears
some-what singular that the incorrectness of the plan
should not have been discovered till now, when Major
L'Enfant was detained many days in Philadelphia to
prepare & fit it for the purpose.

If the memorial of Messrs. Friol Roux & Co. has
not already been sent it may await my arrival in Phil-
adelphia, as I shall have no leisure to give it a consid-
eration, until after my communications have been pre-
pared for Congress. Being much hurried I have only
time to wish you and Mrs. Lear well, & to assure you
of the sincere esteem and regard of

Yrs. Affectly

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 57

No. 34.

MOUNT VERNON, July 3oth. 1792.
Dear Sir,

Your letter from New York came duly to hand, and
I was glad to find you had got that far in safety. I
wish the remainder of your journey may prove equally
pleasant & prosperous. My journey was not of this
sort, for after I had parted with the Coach Horses I was
plagued with those that succeeded them, the following
day; — and the sick mare by a dose of Physic which had
been administered the night I reached Chester, was so
weakened, and failed so much that she was unable to
carry Austin any farther than Susquehanna, — from
thence she was led to Hartford and left, and two days
afterwards gave up the ghost.

I found the face of the Country here and on the
road this side of Baltimore, much very much indeed
parched by a severe drought and the corn in miserable
plight; — but the day & night we reached home, there
fell a most delightful & refreshing rain, and the weather
since has been as seasonable as the most sanguine
farmer could wish, and if continued to us may make our
Indian Corn crop midling — great it is hardly possible
to be — so much was it in arrears when the rains set in.

Great complaints were heard of the Hessian fly, and
of the rust or mildew, as I traveled on, and in some
places I believe the damage has been great, but I con-
ceive more is said than ought to be on this subject; —
and that the Crop, upon the whole, will be abundant of
Wheat: — mine in quantity (and the quality is good)
will I expect greatly exceed any I have made these
several Years past.

I found at George Town many well conceived, &
ingenious plans for the Public buildings in the New
City: — It was a pleasure indeed to find in an infant
Country, such a display of architectural abilities. The

58 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

plan of Mr. Hoben who was introduced to me by Doctr.
Tucker, from Charleston, and who appears to be a very
judicious man, was made choice of for the President's
House, and the commissioners have agreed with him to
superintend the building of it, and that of the Capitol
also, if they should hereafter be disposed to put both
under one management. He has been engaged in some
of the first buildings in Dublin — appears a master
workman and has a great many Lands of his own. He
has laid out the foundation wch. is now digging, and
will be back in a month to enter heartily upon the work.
The plan for the Capitol was not fixed on when I left
George Town — two or three very elegant ones (among
a great many others of less merit) had been presented
but the draughts-men not being there, a postponement
became necessary to receive explanation. The bridge
will be accomplished (it is said) by the time specified in
the contract, and everything that could be put in
motion before the plans for the public Buildings were
fixed on, is in as much forwardness as could be ex-
pected— & will now I have no doubt advance rapidly.
As you did not mention having spoken to Mr. Morris
about the house, I am under some apprehension that
you omitted doing it, which will be unlucky. Give me
an acct. of what I suggested to you, as a matter for in-
direct inquiry. All here are well, except the Majr.
whose situation I think unpromising & precarious,
growing worse — they all join me in best wishes for Mrs.
Lear Yourself & the child.
I am Dear Sir

Yr. Affece. friend

No. 35.

MOUNT VERNON, Septr. aist. 1792.
Dear Sir,

I have written but one letter to you since I came to

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 59

this place — I was on the point of writing a second, —
when yours of the 5th. of August came to my hands,
informing me of your intention of leaving Portsmouth
about the first of this month and expectation of reach-
ing Philadelphia (if no unforseen delays happened) the
2oth. — this information arrested my intention, as it was
uncertain at what place to direct to you — or, that the
letter would reach your hands, before it reverberated
back to that City.

I feel myself much obliged by the information con-
tained in your letters of the 2ist. of July and 5th. of
August, but as I expect soon to see you shall only take
notice of that part of it which respects a tutor for a few
boys, and my ardent wish that you may have been able
to succeed in your expectation of getting one; I am
more and more persuaded of the utility of the
measure, and that without it the loss to Washington
will be irreparable.

I have nothing agreeable of a domestic nature to re-
late, and I go not abroad to collect information of any
other kind. Poor George! He is, I believe not far from
that place from whence no traveller returns. He is
but the shadow of what he was ; he has not been out of
his room and scarcely from his bed these six weeks.
At times he has intervals of ease which flatter a little,
but I have little hope of his surviving the winter. This
adds not a little to my distress and perplexity on a sub-
ject you are already acquainted with — but no more of
this at least for the present.

My family and this part of the Country are more
sickly than they have been since the recollection of
the oldest of us, — first with the flux (but that did not
prevail in my family) and next with intermittant &
remittant fevers. All the whites of it however have
kept up except William whose fever is by an act of
his own imprudence.

60 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Not knowing what delays you may have met with
upon the Road, I have directed Mr. Francis in a letter
of this date to engage Mr. Page's Coach to be here to ac-
commodate our journey to Philadelphia, for which
place I expect to set out about the 8th. though I may
not arrive in that city before the 1 3th. or i4th. of Octr.
The stage however is to be at this place on the yth. at
night. If you should be in Philadelphia by the time
this letter reaches it, I shall rely on your usual punc-
tuality and expedition to effect this. If the Carriage
should not be here before the 8th. the case will not be
altered, as I do not expect Mrs. Washington will leave
this place before the gth. The sale may require
my remaining in George Town one day.

If this letter should find you in Philadelphia, let me
know the result of your application to Mr. Page, by the
first Post after it is received. Our united & best wishes
are offered for yourself Mrs. Lear & the child, and with
sincere & affectionate regard — I am Always Yr. friend

P.S.

If Mr. Page cannot send his Carriage some other
equally convenient if to be had must be sent for our
accommodation, as it is thereon we depend.

No. 36. MOUNT VERNON, Octr. ist. 1792.

Dear Sir,

Expecting this letter will find you in Philadelphia,
I wish you would begin in time to compare all my
speeches in Congress with the subsequent Acts of that
body, that I may see what parts of them have passed
altogether unnoticed, or which have been only parti-
ally noticed; thereby enabling me to judge whether
any & what parts of them should be brought forward
again. It is my request also that you would note every
thing, that may occur to you as fit subjects of infor-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 61

mation, or for recommendation at the opening of the
Session, — and such other matters as result from the laws,
with wch. it is proper to make the Legislature or the
Senate acquainted. I want to have all the materials
collected for my communications previous to my arrival
that when the whole are before me I may select and
digest into order, such as will be proper for my Speech.

It is my present intention to commence my journey
to Philadelphia on this day week, & to spend that and
part of the following day in George Town, but whether
I shall be able to do it, is not absolutely certain, as yet.
William & Richard have both been confined to their
rooms and mostly to their beds, for ten or 1 2 days, with
intermittant fever, which never before yesterday was
moderate enough to admit the Bark, which makes it
doubtful at this moment whether they will be in con-
dition to undertake the journey, if they keep well, and
a return of the fever I am sure will prevent it. As to
poor George, I shall say nothing, his fate is unquestion-
ably fixed and Fanny's from present appearances, is
very unpromising, probably in terminating in the same
disorder. These occurrencies throw my private affairs
into considerable embarrassment; — But as they es-
pecially the Major is not likely to get better, & if they
do will spend the winter at her father's, I must leave
them in it as there is no remedy at present.

The light house at Cape Henry in this State will
soon want a keeper, & if my memory serves me many
have offered. Pray examine their characters & have
them ready to be decided on by the time I arrive.

Mrs. Washington went up this morning to bid Mrs.
Stuart (who has lately added a son to the family) fare-
well. My best wishes attend Mrs. Lear yourself & the
child. — And I am dear Sir

Your Sincere friend and
Affecte. Servt.

6a LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

I do hereby certify, that I have examined the Ac-
counts kept by Mr. Tobias Lear, on my behalf from the
Commencement of my Administration of the Govern-
ment of the United States down to the 3ist. day of De-
cember, One Thousand Seven hundred & ninety two —
as will appear by the Journal & Ledger which contain
them — and that I am perfectly well satisfied with the
clearness & justness of them.

Given under my hand in the City

of Philadelphia this 25th. day

of March, 1793.

No. 37.

BALTIMORE, March 3oth. 1793.
Dear Sir,

Late this afternoon and in Company I reed, your
letter of yesterday's date. Proposing to set out early
in the morning & the trifling incidents which happened
to occur on the road being related in the enclosed letter
I shall conclude with best wishes for yourself Mrs. Lear
and the Child — and assurances of being your sincere
friend and

Affectionate Servant

No. 38.

MOUNT VERNON, April $th. 1793.
Dear Sir,

From Baltimore I acknowledged the receipt of your
letter of the 29th. Ulto., — as I am now about to do
that of the ist. Inst. from hence.

I had no idea of your obtaining money from Mr. De
Barth, if it was ever more abundant than you represent-
ed it to be — nor do I believe he had any expectation at
the time, we bargained to make the payment stipu-
lated. It was I am satisfied a speculation on his part —

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 63

depending upon the Chapter of accidents to comply
with. Such was the opinion of others at the time —
and such has his conduct evinced since. The dis-
appointmt. to me is great as I wanted to apply the
money to particular uses. Public securities (but of
these I dare sayheisasscarse as he is of Cash) would do.

Let me know in your next, after the rect. of this
what are the real selling prices of flour in Philadelphia,
and the opinion of the knowing ones whether the prob-
ability is that it will rise — fall — or remain where it is
for any time. In this State it has fallen, but the scar-
city, of Cash ;& War, or the probability of one between
France &G. Britain are assigned as the Causes, together
with the want of Vessels to export the produce of the
Country.

Offer my best wishes to Mrs. Lear and our little
friend Lincoln, and believe me to be — as I really am
Your Sincere friend &

Affecte. Servt.

No. 39.

MOUNT VERNON, April 8th. 1793.

Dear Sir,

Since my last to you from this place your letter of the
3d. Inst. has been reed. — transmitting Colo. Cannon's
Rental, — and Mr. De Earth's profession of inability to
discharge his Bond. The latter seems to be a more can-
did account, than the former, but with both I must be
satisfied — presuming I shall never obtain better from
either.

Before you say anything to Mr. C — with respect to
the lands which Mr. De Earth had of me, & is willing to
relinquish, I beg you to have some conversation with
the Attorney General, on the subject he mentioned to
me respecting Mr. C — which I did not very clearly un-

64 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

derstand at the time, &know less of it now. It seemed
to squint (if I recollect rightly) at a sort of Speculation
which might implicate the seller ; but in what manner
I know not. As I do not however mean to place it in
the power of malice itself to charge me with any agency
in measures that can even be tortured into impropriety
on this head, I wish the above enquiry to be previously
made.

If it is not too late, I mean if the Assembly of Penn-
sylvania has not risen, and the opportunity lost —
I wish you would enquire of Mr. Gallitan, and others
from the Western Country, into whose hands I could,
to advantage, entrust the management of my business
in the Counties of Fayette & Washington: — for I am
sure it will not do to leave it in the hands of Colo.
Cannon; who if nothing else is against him, is too de-
pendent for his election as representative of the latter
County to fix my rents at a just medium, or to collect
them in a manner he ought to do, least his popularity
should be affected by it. And if the Rents are liable
to be applied (when under leases for 5 years, and after
farms have been settled 12 or 15 years) towards re-
pairs and improvements, I may bid adieu to any pros-
pect of profit from them; as nothing can be easier
than to balance the acct. by fence rails & such other like
improvements ; which every man who ever had a farm
and expected to make any thing on it, always did, &
for their own sakes ever will be obliged to provide for
the security of their Crops at their own expence. It is
usual when a Tenant goes on a new place and has every
thing to provide, to allow him one, two & sometimes
(according to situation & circumstances) three years
Rent free; — but I never heard before of a continuance
of it on farms, so long settled as I have mentioned, &
which have always been inoccupation. Nor is it to be
supposed that a tenant will ever do anything at his

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 65

own expence, if by agreement he can charge it, toth(
account of the Land Lord.

As the will of my deceased Nephew will not be proved
at next Court for this County, I shall not (unless ob-
liged to wait for Mr. Robert Lewis, who has written
me that he shall be here with some Rents & to settle
some other business with me) remain here till Monday
the 1 5th. — but as I shall (unless ad vices f rom Piladel-
phia, or other occurrencies unknown to me at present
render it inconvenient) go by the way I had contem-
plated to come, if the Roads would have permitted it —
that is — by Frederick Town in Maryland — Carlisle —
Harrisburgh, the upper Canal — Reading & the lower
Canal, it is not in my power at this time to name the
day when it is probable I shall be in Philadelphia, —
but at any rate if no accident happens; nor my horses
fail me — it will be by the 25th. of the month at
farthest.

Fanny Washington thanks you for your friendly re-
membrance of her, and joins me in best wishes for your-
self— Mrs. Lear & Lincoln — I am always & Sincerely
Yr. Affectionate friend

No. 40.

MOUNT VERNON, April i2th. 1793.

Dear Sir,

I have received your letter of the 8th., but as I am
on the eve of my return to Philadelphia, and have
many letters to write, I shall do little more than ac-
knowledge the receipt of it. The advices which I may
receive by the Post to-night, will decide whether I
shall proceed by the direct rout — or by the one I intend-
ed to have come.

The enclosed from the Attorney General I return to
him through your hands, that an account and Copy of

66 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

it may be taken before you give it to him, wch. should
be as soon as convenient.

I always receive the information you convey, and
your sentiments upon political or other subjects with
pleasure — no apology therefore was necessary for these
offered in your letter of the above date. I was sorry to
learn by a letter from Mrs. Washingn. that little Lin-
coln has been unwell. I hope he is quite recovered.
My best wishes attend him, — Mrs. Lear — & yourself
and I am always — Your sincere friend & Affecte.

Servant

No. 41.

PHILADELPHIA, June aist. 1793.

Dear Sir,

Your letter of the lyth. came by the Post of yester-
day— and as by the purport of it, there is a probability,
that this letter may find you either at George Town, or
Mount Vernon, I write it for the purpose of declaring,
that your going to the latter place is viewed by me as
a very kind & friendly act. The account given of Mr.
Whiting by Doctr. Craik, is a very distressing one, not
only as it respects the poor fellow himself, — but on acct.
of the effect it must have on my business, present and
to come; during this Year at least.

Getting an acct. from him (if his situation will en-
able him to give it) of the monies received and payed,
and such as may be due, to and from me, is of impor-
tance,— a general view given by him of other matters is
more to be wished than expected. I shall bring with
me the accts. he rendered to Mr. Dandridge when I
was last at Mount Vernon.

If Mr. Clarke fulfills his engagement (and he says he
will tho' I think it questionable) I shall, if no business
more than I am apprised of at present intervenes to

OP GEORGE WASHINGTON 67

prevent it, set out on my journey on Monday; and ex-
pect to be at George Town, if not at Mount Vernon, on
Thursday evening. This being the case & as I shall see
you at one or the other of those places, or must meet
you on the road, I shall only add that with much truth
and friendship I am Dr. Sir Yr. Affecte.

P. S.

Mrs. Lear & Lincoln are perfectly well.

No. 42.

MOUNT VERNON, Septr. 25th, 1793.
My dear Sir,

I have not written to you since we parted, but had
just sat down to do it when your letter of the i3th. inst.
was brought to me from the Post Office Alexandria.

It gave Mrs. Washington, myself, and all who knew
him sincere pleasure to hear that our little favourite
had arrived safe and was in good health at Portsmouth
— we sincerely wish him a long continuance of the lat-
ter— that he may be always as charming and promis-
ing as he now is — that he may live to be a comfort and
blessing to you — and an ornament to his Country. As
a token of my affection for him, I send him a ticket
in the lottery that's now drawing in the Federal City;
& if it should be his fortune to draw the Hotel, it will
add to the pleasure I feel in giving it.

We remained in Philadelphia until the zoth. inst.
It was my wish to have stayed there longer, but as Mrs.
Washington was unwilling to leave me amidst the ma-
lignant fever which prevailed, I could not think of haz-
arding her and the children any longer by my remain-
ing in the City. The house in which we lived, being
in a manner blockaded by the disorder, which was
becoming every day more and more fatal. I therefore
came off with them on the above day, and arrived at

68 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

this place the i4th. without encountering the least
accident on the Road.

You will learn from Mr. Greenleaf that he has
dipped deeply in the concerns of the Federal City ; ad-
vantageously I think for himself — and I am pleased with
it, on public ground also, as it may give facility to the
operations at that place, at the same time that it is em-
barkg. him in a measure which, although it cannot well
fail under any circumstances that are likely to happen,
may be considerably promoted by men of spirit with
large Capitals. He can so much better than I detail
his engagements & the situation of things in and about
the City, that I shall not attempt to do it at present.

Mrs. Washington having decided to let Nelly Cus-
tis have her Watch and Chain, is disposed to receive
substitutes in lieu thereof at about Twenty five guineas
price, and leaves the choice of them to you. The plain-
ness of the Watch &c. will be no objection. One hun-
dred and twenty Dollars, in Bank Notes are enclosed
for the purchase of them.

If it should be convenient, and perfectly safe for you
to engage for me, on reasonable terms a complete Black
Smith, you would oblige me by doing so. As there
are laws in England prohibiting such engagements
under severe penalties, and such may exist in other
Countries, you will understand me clearly that for no
consideration whatsoever would I have you run the
smallest risk of encountering them — you know full well
what kind of a smith would suit my purposes, it is un-
necessary therefore for me to be particular on this head.
He must however have a character on which you can
rely, not only as a complete workman for a farm, but as
an honest, sober and industrious man. If he comes on
wages they must be moderate ; & with or without wages,
he must be bound to serve me three years — four would
be better

TOBIAS LEAR

From a miniature owned by Mrs. Eyre.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 69

Mrs. Washington thanks you for your kind recol-
lection of her request respecting Lincoln, and desires
me to assure you of her sincere love for him — in which
I join, & of her friendship & regard for you. In what
ever place you may be, or in whatever walk of life you
may move, my best wishes will attend you, — for I am
& always shall be — Yr. Sincere friend & Affectr. Servt.

P. S.

I have just reed, a letter from the Earl of Buchan in
which he says my letter intended to accompany the
Portrait had got safe to his hands, but that he had seen
nor heard nothing of the Picture. If you should while
in New York see the painter of it, be so good as to men-
tion this circumstance to him, and inquire into the
cause of the failure.

The District Attorney of New Hampshire, has sent his
resignation. I am entirely unacquainted with the
Characters in that line, in that State, and would thank
you to name the person whom you think best qualified
to succeed Mr. Sherburne & most likely to give general
satisfaction.

No. 43.

PHILADELPHIA, 6th. May 1794.

My dear Sir,

Your letter of the 26th. of Jany. with a Post Script
of the 3oth. of the same month, by Capt. Truxton and
another of the 1 2th. of Feby. by a vessel to New York
I have safely reed. But neither the one from Glasgow
(with the box) nor the other by the Peggy, refered to
in the above letters, are yet come to hand.

The Watch and Portrait of the Earl of Buchan, were
reed, in very good order. The first pleases, and for
your attention to it, Mrs. Washington prays you to ac-

70 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

cept her thanks. The extra Cost, together with the
prices of the other articles from Glasgow and London,
shall be paid so soon as I can find a person disposed to
receive the amount, & this I shall know probably, when
I converse, with Mr. Dalton; who, I believe, is on a
visit to the Federal City ; as he proposed to set out for
it on Monday last.

The reception you met with from the Earl of Buchan
and Sir John Sinclair, gives me sincere pleasure, and
I am glad to find they have introduced you to char-
acters, which may not only contribute to your present
gratifications, but which in the Revolution of events,
may be of service in a future walk of life, without a
possible disservice, that results not from imprudence;
against which your own good sence will always
secure you.

I am much obliged to you for the several communi-
cations in your letters which have come to hand. I
place great reliance on them. The opportunities you
derive from mixing with people in different walks —
high and low — of different descriptions, and of differ-
ent political Sentiments, must have afforded you, an
extensive range for observation and Comparison, —
more so by far than could fall to the lot of a stationary
Character, who is always revolving in a particular
Circle.

I am equally well pleased to hear that the concerns,
in which you are more immediately interested are in as
promising a train as the peculiarly disturbed state of
matters in Europe would allow you to expect. I hope
they will continue, and that your plans may be accom-
plished to the fullest extent of your wishes.

Mr. Pearce my present manager at Mount Vernon,
has been directed to send for your fruit Trees the mo-
ment he hears of the Peggy's arrival at George Town;
and my Gardner is instructed to take particular care

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 71

of them until they are otherwise disposed of by you;
but as the Vessel had not arrived the 29th. Ulto. (when
I heard from Mr. Pearce) there is much reason to fear
they will come too late, as a mild and placid March and
pleasant April (except the first days of it) have caused
a most luxuriant vegetation this Spring with us from
North-to-South.

Not knowing where you may be, when this letter
shall have reached London, — nor the hazzard it may
run in following you, if you should have left that
Metropolis, I shall do little more than touch political
subjects. To tell you that the order of his Britanic
Majesty in Council of the 8th. of June last, respecting
neutral Vessels had given much discontent to the
United States — and that, that of the 6th. of Novem-
ber, and its results, had thrown them into a flame, will
hardly be news to you when you shall have reed, this
letter. The subsequent order of the 8th. of Jany. has
in a degree allayed the violence of the heat, but will by
no means satisfy them, without reparation for the
Spoilations of our Trade & the injuries we sustain for
the non-performance of the Treaty of Peace.

To effect these, if possibly by temperate means, by
fair & firm negociation, an Envoy extraordinary is ap-
pointed, & will, I expect sail in a few days. Mr. Jay is
chosen for this mission — Mr. John Trumbull goes as
his private Secretary.

Many measures have been moved in Congress in con-
sequence of the above mentioned orders of the British
Cabinet. Some have passed into Acts and others are
yet pending. Those which have become Laws are,
one for fortifying our principal Sea Ports (which is
now in vigorous execution) and another for raising
an additional corps of 800 artillery men, for the de-
fence of them, & for other purposes. The Bills which
are pending are to complete our present Military

73 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

/

establishment, — to raise an army of 25,000 men in ad-
dition thereto, — and to organize — put in training —
and to hold in readiness at a minute's warning, a Select
Corps of 80,000 militia. Of the passing of the first &
last of these no doubt seems to be entertained on either
side of the House, — but those who are fearful of what
they call a standing army, will give all the opposition
they can to the other. The result therefore none will
predict, in the present stage of the business.

Besides these a Bill passed the house of Represent-
atives, by a large majority, founded on the following
preamble & resolution "whereas the injuries which
"have been suffered, and may be suffered by the
"United States from violations committed by Great
" Britain, on their neutral -rights & Commercial interests,
"as well as from her failure to execute the yth, article
" of the treaty of Peace render it expedient for the inter-
" est of the United States, that the Commercial inter-
" course between the two Countries should not continue
"to be carried on in the extent at present allowed" —

"Resolved, that from and after the first day of
"November next all commercial intercourse between
" the Citizens of the United States, and the Subjects of
" the King of Great Britain, or the Citizens or Subjects
" of any other nation, so far as the same respects articles
" of the growth or manufacture of G. Britain or Ireland
"shall be prohibited."

This measure was arrested in the Senate at the third
reading, by the Casting vote of the Vice President —
not, as it is said and generally believed, from a disinclina-
tion, to the ulterior expediency of the measure, but from
a desire to try the effect of negociation previous thereto.

Sequestration of British property (not including that
in the funds) and other expedients of a similar kind
have been agitated in the house of Representatives,
but seem I think to be talked off the Stage.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 73

The Packet from Mr. Bartrand to Mr. Jefferson was
forwarded by the first post after it reached my hands.
Mr. Jefferson resigned the Office of Secretary of State
the first of Jany. — and was succeeded by the late
Attorney General Mr. Randolph, whose place of At-
torney General is filled by Judge Bradford, of this State
(Pennsylva.)

Enclosed I give you the trouble of receiving the Copy
of a letter which I wrote to Mr. Arthur Young, by Mr.
William Morris on the i2th. of December last. At the
time that letter was written I had no knowledge of Mr.
Young's late appointment, as Secretary of the National
board of Agriculture, nor of the change of his political
sentiments. It is not improbable but that he has al-
ready, or will, make you acquainted, with the purport
of the above letter. Be this however as it may, my
inducement to send you a Copy of it is, that if the case
should be otherwise — if there appears to be any repug-
nance on his part to Comply with my wishes, — and a
fair occasion should occur of mentioning the matter in
the course of your peregrinations, through England —
Scotland — or elsewhere, & you see no impropriety from
Circumstances or your view of the subject at the mo-
ment I should be glad if you were to do it ; — my wish
further is to dispose of the Lands, I have had restored
to me, by Mr. de Barth ; — and in short my settled lands
in the Western Part of this State, in the Counties of
Fayette & Washington. I have raised the price of
my lands on the Ohio and great Kanhawa to twenty
Shillings Virga. Currency P. Acre, — the Tract in
Fayette (about 1700 acres) to 40, — and that in Wash-
ington to 30 Shillings Pr. Acre, Pennsylvania Currency,
3,000 Acs.

I have no scruple to disclose to you, that my motives
to these sales (as hath been in part expressed to Mr.
Young) are to reduce my income be it more or less to

74 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

specialties ; that the remainder of my days, may there-
by, be more tranquil and free from cares ; — and that I
may be enabled (knowing precisely what my depend-
ence is) to do as much good with it as the resource will
admit — for altho' in the estimation of the world, I
possess a good and clear estate, yet so unproductive is
it, that I am oftentimes ashamed to refuse aids which
I cannot afford, unless I was to sell part of it, to answer
the purpose. Besides these I have another motive
which makes me earnestly wish for these things — it is
indeed more powerful than all the rest — namely to
liberate a certain species of property which I possess
very repugnantly to my own feelings; but which im-
perious necessity compels, and until I can substitute
some other expedient, by which expences, not in my
power to avoid (however well disposed I may be to do
it) can be defrayed.

You are so well acquainted with the situation and
quality of the Lands which are here mentioned for sale,
that is almost unnecessary for me to go more into de-
tail respecting them with you — those however on the
Ohio, between the mouths of the little and great Kan-
hawa are in three tracts, the first containing 2314
Acres, — laying on the Banks of the River, about 12
miles below Maria tte — the 2d. — 2448 acres still lower
down (being the 4th. large bottom on the East side of
the River) — and the 3d. on the same side, opposite the
great bend in the River, containg. 4395 acres, all of
which are of the first quality. The lands on the great
Kanhawa are in no respect inferior. They are con-
tained in four Patents ; — the first beginning within two
miles of the mouth of that River & contains 10,990
Acres of the richest bottom, stretching 17 or 18 miles
along the River. The next of 7276 Acres, is a little
above the last on the opposite side of the River, & the
other two are still higher up at the mouth of, and on

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 75

Coal River; both are of the first quality & containing
together abt. 5,000 Acres.

Although it is my wish to convert these Lands into
cash on the terms and for the purposes mentioned, yet
for reasons which will readily occur to you, I would not
hawk them about as some do, if they were never to be
sold.

I wish most sincerely that some inducement could
be offered Professor Anderson which would bring him
to this Country. His labours are certainly ingenious,
and worthy encouragement, but I fear it will not be in
my power to avail these States of them. His commu-
nications however are under consideration.

Often, through the medium of Mr. Langdon, we
hear of your son Lincoln, and with pleasure, that he
continues to be the healthy and sprightly child he for-
merly was. He declared if his ticket should turn up a
prize, he would go and live in the Federal City. He
did not consider, poor little fellow, that some of the
prizes would hardly build him a baby house nor for-
see that one of these small tickets would be his lot,
having drawn no more than ten dollars.

Mr. Bl t's Agency in this lottery will it is feared

be more productive of thorns than roses; — the matter
is not yet wound up, — and the Commissioners appear
to be uneasy. In all other respects matters as far as
the accts. of them have come to my knowledge, are
going on well.

My public avocations, will not at any rate admit of
more than a flying trip to Mount Vernon for a few days,
this summer: — This not suiting Mrs. Washington, I
have taken a house in Germantown, to avoid the heat
of this City, in the months of July and August — she,
Nelly — and the rest of the family, unite with me in
every good wish for your health prosperity and safe

76 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

return; than whom none you may be assured offers
them with more sincerity.

With Affection & regard I am &

Always shall be Yours.

No. 44.

GERMAN TOWN, August 28th. 1794.

My dear Sir,

It gave me very sincere pleasure to find by your
letter of the 226.. inst. (which by the by — did not come
to my hands 'till the evening of the 26th. not time
enough to acknowledge the receipt of it by the Post of
next day) that you had arrived in good health at
George Town, with a valuable Cargo, of Goods, and
that you had arranged your business to your satis-
faction in England, Scotland, & Holland. When you
shall have arranged your business at George Town, and
business or inclination may turn your face towards the
Eastwards, it will be unnecessary to add that to see
you would make this family happy; and with a little
roughing on your part, you could be accommodated
therein.

If you have no accts. later I have the pleasure to tell
you, that by a letter from your good mother to Mrs.
Washington, that she and little Lincoln were perfectly
well on the nth. of this month, — and by her acct. he
continued to be the fine sprightly child you left him.

The enclosed though out of season now will serve to
show that your letters did not sleep with me in silence.
It went by Mr. Jay, and was returned by him with the
following papagraph, or letter, dated —
London, 230!. June.

"On Sunday the isth. of this month I arrived here.
"The next day I made enquiries for Mr. Lear, and was
" informed that he had gone to Liverpool to embark for

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 77

"America. I asked whether it was probable, that
" letters sent by the Post would find him still there —
" the answer was that it was highly improbable. Under
"these circumstances, and well knowing the jealous
"attention now paid to letters passing thro* the Post
" Office, I thought it most advisable to forbear making
"the experiment, and to return that letter to you."

The Copy of my letter to Mr. Young from whom I
have reed, no acknowledgment, will be of no other use
to you now, than to show what were and still are my
wishes ; that if any inquiries after, for back lands should
be made in your presence, you might be enabled to
bring mine into view. The plan with respect to my
Mount Vernon Estate I have no idea could be carried
into effect in this Country.

I had it in contemplation to visit that place about
the last of September or beginning of Octr. but the re-
bellious conduct of the people in the Western Counties
of this state renders the journey uncertain, and may
defeat it altogether.

With very great Sincerity & Affection
I am always Yours

No. 45-

GERMAN TOWN 28th. Augt. 1794.

Dear Sir,

Mr. Johnson & Doctr. Stuart having resolved to with-
draw themselves as Commissioners of the Federal City
— and not to act after the meeting which is proposed
to be held on the isth. of next month, it has become
necessary to appoint two others in their places, one
of whom it is said ought to possess a considerable stock
of legal abilities, as cases are frequently occuring to
render law knowledge necessary for the purposes of de-
ciding as well on points depending thereon, as for the

78 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

draughting of Agreements & other instruments which
are requisite in the progress of the business.

Mr. Scott (at present of Baltimore) a gentleman
eminent in the profession of the law, a man of Charac-
ter & fortune, and one who has the welfare of the New
City much at heart — has been applied to, and accepted
the appointed trust. And if it is convenient & agree-
able to you, to accept also, the commission wilj. be
again compleated ; & the business go on without inter-
ruption, from and after the ensuing meeting as before.

It has been found from experience, indispensibly
necessary that the Commissioners should reside in
the City (in George Town would be tantamount) and
devote by some arrangements among themselves, much
of their time to the multitudinous concerns of the same ;
— thereby superceding the necessity of employing a
Superintendant. As the rendering of such duties are
not to be expected on the terms the late Commissioners
served (and two of them decline it on any terms) I
have now fixed the Salary for each at sixteen hundred
dollars P. Annum, and am obliged to provide successors.

Were it not that I am unwilling to add any thing
that might carry with it, the appearance of influencing
your judgment, in the decision you are called upon to
make in this case, I should have expressed a wish that
it might be found convenient for you to accept the ap-
pointment. If however you should find it incompat-
ible with your other plans & views, & should decline the
acceptance — I pray you to let me know, as far as you
may be able to discover, in how respectable a light Doctr.
Thornton stands, or would be considered by the pro-
prietors of the Federal City (among whom he spent
some time in the month of July last). The Doctr. is
sensible and indefatigable I am told in the execution of
whatever he engages; — to which may be added, his
taste for architecture; but being little known, doubts

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 79

arise on that head. If (in case of your non-accept-
ance) any other person or persons shd. occur to you,
as fit for this business, be so good as to mention
(under the rose) their names to me. The appoint-
ment is necessary & can be delayed no longer.
With very great esteem & regard
I am dear Sir

Your Affecte. Servt.

No. 46.

GERMAN TOWN, 3ist. Augt. 1794.

My dear Sir,

On the 28th. I wrote you two letters. In one of them
I intended (but forgot it) to have made a request that
you would enquire after the lad that used to wait at
Suter's (William I think his name was) whose servitude
had expired, and if disengaged and his character good,
as well as handy, to engage him for me at eight Dollars
P. Month, (with the other allowances known to you)
being what I am now obliged to give, to the most in-
different set of servants I ever had. When I mention
William I do not mean to confine myself to him, al-
though his qualifications as a waiter (the only light in
which he has appeared to me) to be very good; — any
other genteel looking and well made man (not a giant
or dwarf) might answer equally well perhaps, if sober,
honest, good tempered, and acquainted with the duties
of a house Servant, & footman.

Sincerely & affectionately
I remain Yours

No. 47.

PHILADELPHIA, Deer. i2th. 1794.
My dear Sir,
Your letter of the 5th. Inst. and the receipt for the

8o

second payment for the lots I purchased on the Eastern
Branch, in the Federal City came duly to hand.

You are perfectly at liberty to examine my presses
and Trunks at Mount Vernon, for any papers I may
have respecting the transactions of the Directors of the
Potomack Compa., or any matters and things which
may concern the navigation of that River.

Mrs. Fanny Washington has the master key of all
the others, from whom you can get it; — but whether
the papers you are in pursuit of are to be found in the
press, or in any Trunks I am unable to inform you; —
the keys of the locked trunks are, if I remember rightly,
in my writing Table; the key of which remains in it.

For many very important reasons (unnecessary to
enumerate to you) the navigation of that River ought
to be pushed forward with all the celerity, which the
nature of the work will admit. Veiwing the matter as
I do, I shall not neglect any fair opportunity of facili-
tating a visit from Mr. Weston to that quarter — but
(under the rose I must say it) however fair the assur-
ances of his going thither may be, you may take it for
granted that from motives of jealousy there is a Counter-
tide to that measure ; — and I wish you may not find
something similar to it in another quarter, if the oper-
ations on the Shannondoah are postponed — much
longer. Do not forget how the Trade of Fredericksburg
Falmouth, Hanover Town on York River, & indeed
Richmond itself, will be effected by the opening of this
Navigation — I should not be at all surprised therefore
if future applications to the Assembly of Virga. — (if
there be occasion to make any) respecting it should
meet with much coldness and difficulty.

I should not any more than you, be disposed to con-
fide in the opinion of Mr. Claiborne's Engineer; nor
(in confidence to you) to Mr. Claiborne himself; — but
as he speaks in exalted terms of this man (for you must

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 81

know Claiborne is now in this City and has mentioned
the matter also to me) a little money might not be mis-
applied in obtaining the opinion of this Engineer; to
see how far it would accord with Mr. Weston's — if he
can be got there; — without, if he should follow after,
letting him know what that opinion is. Tis possible
this person may unite (as Claiborne says he does) both
Science & practice. If so, and he should possess other
requisites, he might be useful. Tryal of, without a
relyance upon him, cannot be injurious.

Mr. Jonathan Trumbull has once or twice asked me
what reply the Commissioners of the Federal have made
to the letter of his brother John which I sent to them —
be so good as to remind them, or either of them wch.
you may first see of this matter.

I am Yours Affectly.

No. 48.

PHILADELPHIA, Deer. i4th. 1794.

My dear Sir,

The day following the one on which I wrote to you
last your letter of the loth. inst. was received.

It is to be regretted exceedingly that delegated pow-
ers are, often-times so little regarded; and that trusts
of an important nature, the neglect of which, may be
attended with serious consequences, should be suffered
to sleep in the hands of those who ought to carry them
into activity. Such from your representation appears
to be the case of the Petition which ought in behalf of
the Potomac Compy. to have been laid before the
Assembly of Virginia in due Season.

The notice of the intended presentment of such
Petitions (which is required by law) cannot I presume
be dispensed with ; — and if there be any derilection to
the measures prayed for, the limitation to & expira-

82

tion of the time for the reception of them will be urged
as a plea for Postponement.

The propriety of my writing to individual members,
or even to the Assembly itself, on this subject is, in my
mind, a matter that may be questioned ; — but suppos-
ing the case to be otherwise, I do not know who the
members are ; and such indeed has been the change of
things, since I mixed in the politics ; or much with the
people of that State, (and of the neighbourhood of
Alexandria) that an entire new set unknown to me
personally, are in the exercise of the powers of Govern-
ment. To morrow however I will communicate this
matter to Mr. Randolph, and know if he has any ac-
quaintances, in that Assembly, to whom he could intro-
duce the subject, — and thereby aid your personal ex-
ertions. 'Tis to be lamented however that in plain
matters — a little ticklishly circumstanced — such haz-
zards (at least of delay) should be unnecessarily en-
countered. We are all well, and join in best wishes
for you — and I am

Affectionately Yours

No. 49.

PHILADELPHIA, Deer. 2ist. 1794.
My dear Sir,

Your letter of the i7th. Inst. was received Yesterday,
— and I am glad to find that an act of the Virginis As-
sembly has been obtained for prolonging the term for
the completion of the inland navigation of the Poto-
mac. The like I hope has been, or will be obtained,
this Season, in the assembly of Maryland.

A good opportunity presenting itself on Thursday
last, I embraced it to inquire of Mr. Morris if the Di-
rectors of that Company might entertain any hope of
deriving aid from Mr. Weston's opinion, respecting
the lock Seats at the great fall of that River; — his

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 83"

answer was, " Mr. Weston, from some peculiar circurn-
"stances attending their own concerns, had been pre-
" vented from visiting that spot as was intended, but
"that he was now expected to be in this City in a few
"days (as I understood) when he would propose and
"urge his going thither. "

The plan of Mr. Claiborne's Engineer, as far as I
understand it is to avoid locks altogether. The vessels
are received into a Basket or Cradle, and let down by
means of a laver and pullies; and raised again by
Weights at the hinder extremity of the laver, which
works on an axis at the head of a substantial Post, fixed
about the Center of the laver. On this principle but
differently constructed, Mr. Greenleafafew months ago
shewed me a model, the efficacy of which he seemed to
entertain the most exalted opinion. My doubts of the
utility of both arise, first from the insufficiency of any
machinery of this sort to bear the weight of the Cradle
when charged with Water & a loaded Boat therein;
and its aptness to get out of order by means thereof ; —
Secondly I do not find they are in general use; — and
thirdly — because if I recollect rightly — Mr. Weston
has told me (but of this I am not certain) that no
method of raising and lowering boats had been found
equal to that of locks — still, as I observed in my last, I
should be for hearing the opinions & explanations of
any and every scientific and practical character that
could be easily got at, on the subject: — & therefore
would hear Claiborne's Engineer as well as Mr.
Weston; — especially as he professes to be particularly
well skilled in the application of steam, in propelling
Boats (in an easy and cheap manner) against the
Stream ; — and in conducting of Water to Cities, or for
any other purpose whatsoever.

The Bill you allude to has not passed nor do I know
what shape it will take if it does ; — & therefore can say

84 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

nothing more on the subject at this time, than that,
there will be no precipitancy, in engaging either the
Agent or the means of carrying the law into effect, if
the measure which I have recommended should be
adopted ; with the importance of it I am strongly im-
pressed; consequently if any thing should be required
of the president towards carrying of it into execution,
I shall feel it in a particular manner, my duty to set it
a going under the most favorable auspices.

I now have and for some considerable time have had
twenty five Hhds. Tobo. in the Ware houses in Al-
exandria, which at some times I have forgot, and at
other times have been indisposed to take the prices
which were given for Potomac Tobo. on the Virginia
side. Originally this Tobacco was of the best sort — put
up dry — & the quality of it reported to be exceedingly
good. If the latter is the case still, it will in some re-
pects, and for some purposes, have the advantage of
New Tabacco ; but what to do with it I know not. In
Alexandria it might not bring me i8/ P. Hundred
Wt. — when in George Town (I mean in the ware houses
in these places) it might bring a guinea. I have
thought, but whether it will be practicable to accom-
plish it without difficulty I am unable to decide, that
if the Tobo. could be removed from the Ware houses
in which it now is, to those in George Town & be rein-
spected at the latter, that I might be a considerable
gainer by it. But admitting that this can be done
without encountering impediments which might in-
volve inconveniencies ; or that would excite notice or
remark, neither of which I should incline to subject
myself to, it would be previously necessary to know
whether the Tobacco would pass at the latter place,
for if it should be brought there and be condemned, I
should lose the whole and sustain an expence besides, —
whereas in its present situation, it will I presume com-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 85

mand the price current in Alexandria. If the sug-
gestion here mentioned can be accomplished (without
involving the consequencies expressed above) the best
expedient that occurs to me to effect it, is under the
idea of its being purchased by, or rather offered for
sale to a Maryland Merchant, to have it re-examined
where it is in presence of the George Town Inspectors
who would be paid for their attendance, & who should
declare to the supposed purchaser whether they would
pass it were it brought to the Ware houses in George
Town. If in the affirmative, and there is no other im-
pediment to the measure, the whole business might be
easily accomplished by the removal, reinspection, &
issuing new notes, either in my name or that of the
supposed purchaser; — the last of which for several
reasons I think would have the best appearance.
Whether this project can be carried into execution or
not is to me uncertain but to avoid delay and in order
to enable you to do it if it shall be thought eligable, I
send you the Notes for this purpose, and to know what
the Tobacco would sell for where it is, if it be not
eligable to remove it — they may be kept or returned
according to circumstances. In the Ware houses at
George Town I have or ought to have by this time,
9000 Ibs. of Crop Tobo. — as you will perceive by the
enclosed letter to me from Colo. Deakins, the price of
this also.

I return Doctr. Currie's letter with thanks for the
perusal of it. The picture drawn in it of the state of
things in his own Counry, and the details wch. he gives
of those of the Belligerient powers are gloomy for
them indeed. All here are well, and all join in best
regards for you, with — Dear Sir, Your Affectionate

P. S.
I have sought in vain for the Tobacco notes men-

86 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

tioned in the body of this letter. Presuming I must
have sent them to Mr. Pearce — but of the doing it I
have no recollection — I have directed him by this Post
if he has them to forward them to you.

No. 50.

PHILADELPHIA, Deer. 22nd. 1794.

My dear Sir,

Looking into an old porte folio which I had not seen
this many a day, I found the papers which accompany
this note, relative to the River Potomack. I do not
know that any of them will be useful to you; but as
well for the purpose of keeping them together, as to af-
ford you an opportunity of deciding for yourself, they
are now forwarded to you.

I also send you the sketch which has been presented
to me by Mr. Claiborne, of the New Method of low-
ering and raising boats, without locks. It will convey
a better Idea than my description of it in the letter of
Yesterday was capable of doing, & for that reason it
is forwarded.

I am Your Affecte. Servt.

No. 51.

PHILADELPHIA, Jany. pth. 1795.

My dear Sir,

Your letter of the ist. Inst. has been received, but
not soon after the date of it as might have been ex-
pected, & not recollecting in time that this was Post
day for the Southward, I shall confine myself to a
single point; namely, to inform you as I have been
informed myself, that in a late meeting of the Canal
Company of this State permission was given to Mr.
Weston to visit the lock seats at the great falls of Poto-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 87

mac, and that he might be expected there about the
first of next month.

I am Your Affecte

No. 52.

PHILADELPHIA, Jany i?th. 1795.
My dear Sir,

On Friday last I wrote you a few lines and assigned
reasons for not writing more fully.

In addition to what I then said, which was only to
inform you, that permission had been given by the
Canal Compy. of this state for Mr. Weston to visit the
falls of Potomac, and that he might be expected at the
Federal City about the first of next month, I shall no-
tice with concern — it being contrary to the heretofore
entertained opinion — that the funds for carrying on
navigation are from your view of them likely to fall
short ^10,000 Stg. of the object.

What expedient had best be adopted for suppyling
the deficiency will merit serious consideration under
existing Circumstances. On an abstract of the Case,
I should give it as my opinion, without hesitation, that
the present sharers ought to continue their advances
till the final completion ; — & for this plain & interesting
reason, (with me) that no speculation to which money
can be applied will be more productive, with so much
honour, and so little risque. But how far the majority
of the Company (many of whom probably never be-
stowed a thought on the Subject) may be of this senti-
ment ; or how far their inclinations and abilities might
induce the adoption of the measure if they were is not
for me to decide — and as individuals of the Company
will be as free as others to become purchasers if the
shares are increased, it does not appear to be a matter
of much moment which of these modes is prefered, or
whether by loan if the money is to be obtained.

88 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

No doubt remains in my mind of what will be the
productiveness of the tolls when the navigation is in
full operation. To the best of my recollection they
were calculated to amount (at the time of passing the
acts of incorporation) to 15 P. Cent on the Capital, by
an estimate that was then made of the several articles
which from their contiguity to the River it was known
would be Water borne. Since that period the pop-
ulation of the Counties bordering on the Potomac & of
course the produce arising therefrom has encreased
greatly, and when the Shenendoah is added thereto
(which formed no part of the Original estimate) it must
equal the most sanguine expectation.

Mr. Claiborne's Engineers (for it seems he has two
for different purposes) are fixed in this City, either of
which according to the use for which you want one,
might be had at any time, but as I am not strongly im-
pressed with a belief that men of eminence would come
to this Country in the manner, and under the circum-
stances, they have done (but this I say without having
knowledge of the real characters of the gentlemen, &
without design to injure them) might it not be politic
to obtain the opinion of the most competent of them,
before Mr. Weston (who is known to be a Scientific &
experienced Engineer) gives his? He will not adopt
their opinion contrary to his experience & judgment;
but if his opinion is first taken and transpires, it may
be given into by them from the want of these in them-
selves, endeavoring thereby to erect a character on his
foundation.

I am much obliged by the trouble of your enquiries
respecting my Tobacco in the Ware houses at Alexan-
dria & George Town, and as the disposal of it is some
what out of my way at present and in truth is a mat-
ter that rarely occurs to me, except when I am
reminded of it by Mrs. Washington, you would add

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 89

to the favor by making sale of it, on such terms and
whensoever in your judgmt. the moment is favorable.
I am in no hurry nor under any necessity to pre-
cipitate the Sale, & to your judgment also it is left, to
continue where it is or to remove the Tobacco from
Alexandria to George Town. We are all tolerable well
& join in good wishes & the Compliments of the Season
to you. With regard & affection

I am always Yours

No. 53.

PHILADELPHIA, i8th. Feby. 1795.
Dear Sir,

Your letter of the i3th. Inst. came to me yesterday —
previous to which your other letters of the 24th. & 3oth.
Ulto. had been duly received.

About a fortnight ago I saw & spoke to Mr. Weston
myself respecting his visit to the falls of Potomac, and
wished if he was able that he would name the time he
would, or expected, to be there. He answered about
the last of the month. That he had to return first to
Lebanon (near to which they are digging the Canal be-
tween the Waters of Susquehanna & Schuylkill) and
should proceed from thence. As it is more than prob-
able than his rout will be by the way of Carlisle —
Shippensburgh, — Chambersburgh, and Hagerstown,
above the mountain, — or if not by that course, it will
be through York & Frederick Town below it ; — and in
either case that he will return by Baltimore, it is to be
regretted (as in a former letter you expressed a wish
that he should see the Shannondoah near its conflyence
with the Potomack) that some previous arrangement
could not have been made for the purpose of meeting
him at or near the spot you wished him to view above.
This for many reasons I could not propose nor had I an
opportunity of doing it admitting the propriety of the

9o LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

measure, as it was on a public day (in what is called the
Levee Room) and just as he was leaving the City that
I saw him. Some embarrassments respecting the busi-
ness of the Canal Companies in this State brought and
detained him here longer than was expected; — but
this circumstance was unknown to me until the moment
of his departure, otherwise I should have seen him
sooner, and would have conversed more fully with him
on his proposed visit. To his detention here may be
ascribed his not being with you at an earlier day than
is now thought of.

Much has been said of late of the inclined plain in
Connecticut River, of the utility of it I mean; — It
would be well, I think, to question Mr. Weston pretty
fully on this mode of raising and lowering Boats, as
the simplicity, cheapness, and effect is the subject of
Eulogium — deservedly or not, I shall not undertake
to pronounce.

The family are all well. Betcy & Mr. & Mrs. Peter,
left this on Monday morning for New York to return on
Saturday. Mrs. Washington & the other two join me
in every good wish for you and

I am sincerely & affectionately

Yours

No. 54.

PHILADELPHIA, March 4th. 1795.

My dear Sir,

Your favor of the 23d. Ulto. came duly to hand. The
letters which I write to acquaintances, or friends, are
done at no great expence of time or thought They
are off hand productions, with little attention to compo-
sition or correctness; and even under these circum-
stances are rarely attempted when they interfere with
my public duties.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 91

From what you have written and from what I have
heard from others, I hope Mr. Weston is on the Poto-
mack 'ere this ; and that much benefit may be expected
from the visit. He is certainly a judicious man ; — with
both theory and Practice united. I am pleased to hear
that the Locks which have been erected at the little
falls have stood the test of a first trial so well; — and
this pleasure will be increased if Mr. Weston should
make a favorable report of them.

An unlucky dispute has happened, or is likely to hap-
pen, I find between the present Commissioners — and
Mr. Johnson (one of the old set). These things under
any view in which they can be placed, are extremely
unpleasant, & are rendered more so, when they are
brought before me. The points in dispute have not
come before me in detail — the main one I am told is,
whether the lots adjoining Rock Creek above the Stone
Bridge, come under the description of Water lotts; and
would be so construed in the contract between the for-
mer Commissioners & Mr. Greenleaf. From what I
have learnt it is a question of some magnitude, in as
much as establishing a principle applicable to that case,
will have an extensive effect in favour of or adverse to
the public property in the City. This being the case
let me ask you to collect the Sentiments of the judicious
about you in the City & in George Town, as far as it is
to be drawn from casual (at least not from forced) con-
versation respecting the dispute, and to inform me
thereof. You will readily perceive that it is for my
own and private information my request to you pro-
ceeds : — both the request and answer to it, will then of
course be confined to ourselves.
With affectionate regard

I am Your Sincere friend

92 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

No. 55.

PHILADELPHIA, iyth. May 1795.
Dear Sir,

About the sum which is due to me from your House,
I owe the Commissioners of the Federal City ; — let me
request you therefore to ascertain — pay — and transmit
the acct. thereof to me. If in doing this the balance
shall be against me, it shall be paid to your order—-
if in my favor, let it remain there till called for.
I am Your Affecte. Servt.

No. 56.

PHILADELPHIA, 2$th. May, 1795.
My dear Sir,

In due course of the Post I have been favored with
your letters of the i7th. Inst. from Baltimore and 2oth.
from George Town; — and thank you for the informa-
tion contained in both.

Enclosed I send you what money I had by me of
my private funds ; — and an order on the Bank of Al-
exandria for all I have there. Both of which sums I
pray you to lay out in the purchase of Stock in that
Bank — or the Bank of Columbia — or in both, as from
circumstances, and the information you may possess
at the moment, you shall deem most advisable and
advantageous.

The sum enclosed is nine hundred and sixty dollars,
in notes of the United States Bank. The sum in the
Bank of Alexandria amounts, according to the infor-
mation given me by Mr. Pearce, to three thousand
four hundred and thirty Dollars & sixty seven Cents.
But be it more or less, the order embraces it. With
my. sincere esteem & regard I am

Dear Sir

Yr. Affecte. friend

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 93

Bank Notes Dolls.

5 of 100 dollars each .... 500

2 of 50 100

18 of 10 180

36 of 5 180

960

No. 57.

PHILADELPHIA, 4th. June, 1795.

My dear Sir,

Your letters of the 26th. and 29th. Ulto. have been
duly received, but not adverting in time that the Post
returned on Wednesday I could not answer the latter
until this day.

I pray you to continue your purchases in either of
the Banks of Alexandria or Columbia ; or, both ; as you
shall deem best; — so far as the appropriated sums in
your hands belonging to me (to which add the three
thousand dollars received from Doctr. Stuart) will go.
In doing this, let the call for ten dollars on each share
purchased in the Bank of Columbia be included; — be-
cause until I receive payment for some land which I
have sold, or the Cash for my flour, &c. — which is not
yet due, I shall not have it in my power to apply a
further sum to this use.

It gives me great pleasure to hear that the public
buildings are going on briskly — and that persons from
the Southward (for I believe it is the first instance be-
yond a single lot or so) are becoming adventures in the
Federal City — with a view to improvements.

I am clearly in sentiment with you (and the Com-
missioners know it) that if the business can proceed
without limping that the lots which belong to the
public ought to be held up, except single ones or a

94 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Square at most and those only to be disposed of on the
express condition of improvement.

The Senators are beginning to assemble. By Mon-
day (the day appointed for their meeting) it is pre-
sumed they will all be here, as some of the most distant
are already on the ground. The members of this
family are all well & join in best wishes for you with

Dear Sir

Your Affecte.

No. 58.

PHILADELPHIA, isth. June, 1795.
My dear Sir,

Your letters of the 3d. & 4th. Inst. (in the date of the
latter I presume there is a mistake) with several Ac-
counts enclosed in the first, have been duly received;
as was the certificate of the Shares, which was bought
in the Banks of Alexandria & Columbia on my behalf.

Your preference of the former for the appropriation
of the balance which remain in your hands, is accord-
ant with my ideas; and unless you have very good
reasons to believe that the shares may be had at par by
delaying the purchase of them, it might be as well per-
haps to buy at the prices now going (especially if the
overplus will meet compensation in the dividends) as
to await for a fall.

Being hurried I shall only add the good wishes of this
family to my own, and assure you of the sincere esteem
& regard with which I am
Dear Sir,

Your Affecte. friend

No. 59.

MOUNT VERNON, 5th. Augt. 1795.
My dear Sir,

It is my intention at present to be in George Town

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 95

to morrow, but as I have been sending to the Post
Office in Alexandria, every day since Friday last for
letters, without having reed, any from the officers of
Government ; and may by this day's mail find such an
accumulation of them, as to make it impracticable for
me to give them proper attention, prepare answers
against Saturday morning — and be on business in
George Town at the same time; I now send you a
power of Attorney to act for me (if I should not be
there) in the latter case. In haste I am

Your Affecte. Servt.

No. 60.

PHILADELPHIA, 2d. Novr. 1795.

My dear Sir,

Your letters of the i9th.& — Ulto. came duly to hand,
and I expected 'ere this to have been decisive upon the
contents of them; — but the case being otherwise, I
shall postpone writing fully to you until the next or
another Post.

It may not be amiss however briefly to observe that
Colo. Rochfontain (being in this City) was asked how
it came to pass, as he had seen the site at the conflu-
ence of the two Rivers Potomac & Shanandoah, he had
made no mention of it in his general Report? His
answer was, there was no ground on which convenient
buildings could be placed, and assigned other reasons
in a written report, which he made. But since the re-
ceipt of your last, with a letter from Genl. Darke to
the Secretary of War — I have suggested his going there
again in order to view the ground more accurately.
This, if nothing more pressing shall require his attend-
ance in another quarter, will be the case. I shall de-
fer therefore saying any thing further on the subject
till the matter is decided. If the Colo, goes at all, he

96 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

will probably pass through George Town, and if it could
be made convenient for Col. Gilpin (who understands
the nature and application of water well) and yourself
to accompany him — advantages, I am persuaded,
would result from the journey. One of the Colo's, ob-
jections to this site is that no water work (on acct. of
freshets) would be safe there. These lands, however
considering the reservations of the Ferries, buildings
&c. will come much higher than I had any idea of.

If you have not already agreed for the rent of my
house in Alexandria @ Sixty pounds Pr. Annum, I
wish this sum might be compared with other rents, be-
fore it is fixed on. I was told by several as I passed
through Alexandria, that I might readily dispose of
the lot, if I was so inclined, for ^1200 : — Sixty pounds
rent would only be an interest of 5 P. Cent — which is
inadequate for house rent.

Give my love to Fanny & the children, in which Mrs.
Washington joins, and be assured of the sincere esteem
& regard of — Dear Sir

Yr. Affecte.

No. 61.

PHILADELPHIA, 3oth. Novr. 1795.

My dear Sir,

Your letter of the i7th. Inst. came safe to hand, but
not before the 26th.

I intended to have written to you by Colo. Roch-
fontaine — but he went off unknown to me. Upon a
second view of the site, at the Conflux of the Rivers
Potomac & Shenandoah, with the explanations he will
receive from Colo. Gilpin & yourself, I hope and expect
the advantages of that spot, will strike him more favor-
able than was indicated in his reports — and that some-
thing will be decided upon with precision.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 97

It is with great pleasure that I learn from your letters,
that the River between the Great and Little falls has
been so much improved this fall, and that the prospect
of getting some of the new Shares subscribed for by the
Maryland assembly is so good ; — I wish as good a dis-
position may be found in the other assembly: — but
above all that your means would enable you to pro-
ceed vigorously to the improvement of the Navigation
of the Shenandoah River ; — f or that is the Source from
whence the wealth of the City is to be derived.

If the Directors are in want of such a character, as
the enclosed letter describes, it may be well to intimate
it as soon as possible; as it is not likely that Mr. Myers
will remain long unemployed, as lock navigation is
contemplated in many parts of this Country. I have
not seen the Gentleman myself, but understand from
others that his testimonials are full & ample, & that he
is a stout & healthy man.

Your opening Mr. Maury's letter to me was a thing
of necessity, and I am obliged to you for having done
so ; and for the steps you took consequent thereupon —
& for sending the goods to Mount Vernon.

If I cannot get a full rent for my house in Alexan-
dria, I must be content with what it will fetch, and
that without delay; otherwise (the cold weather
approaching) the inclosures will be torn down for
firing, if no other damage is sustained from its being left
unoccupied. My love to Fanny & children.
I am always, & Sincerely
Your affectionate

P. S.

I will send to and have a little conversation with Mr.
Myers and give you the result in my next.

98 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

No. 62.

PHILADELPHIA, 2d. Deer. 1795.

My dear Sir,

Since writing to you on Monday I have seen & con-
versed with Mr. Myers; who is desirous of employment,
and of removing from this place, — which (having a
pretty large family) he finds very expensive. He pro-
fesses to understand perfectly the various matters set
forth in the card I enclosed you in my last ; — and was
employed according to his own acct. in the Lancashire
navigation in England, until the call for Soldiers took
away most of the hands. This circumstance, added
to a desire to fix his fortunes in America, where he has
some property in Land, and his wife is a native,
induced him to embark for this Country.

He disapproves of Locks, made of wood but under-
stands them in all their parts. He is healthy in ap-
pearance, stout & Robust, and of a good humored counte-
nance. He professes to be moderate in his expecta-
tions; and willing to put himself upon trial a Year; the
Wages to be fixed at the end of it. He gave me to
understand however that at the Lancashire Works he
reed, three hundred guineas a year and some small per-
quisites;— and added that compensations were very
much governed, by the prices of necessaries, & the
expence of living.

I told him that I would write by this day's post, and
by that of Thursday of next week, such an answer
might be received, as to enable him to decide upon the
eligibility of his waiting upon the Directors for further
explanations.

I do not write formally otherwise I should have di-
rected this letter to the board ; but as you can easily
consult the members of it, — it would be well to express
their sence on the contents of it. Nor do I mean to

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 99

give any opinion of my own on the subject ; as the Di-
rectors know better than I do, in what train the affairs
of the Company is, — & what their wants are. All that
I shall say is, that if Mr. Myers really understands all he
professes, particularly that of Lock navigation, he will
not be long without applications in abundance, espe-
cially as the members of Congress are now assembling
from all parts of the U. States.

Whatever you chuse should be said to Mr. Myers, let
it be comprised in a letter to me, or him, as you please,
if to me I shall put it into his hands, that there may be
no misunderstanding of the sentiments. Give my love
to Fanny & the children & believe me to be

Your affecte.
No. 63.

PHILADELPHIA, 25th. Deer. 1795.

My dear Sir,

Your several letters relative to the state of the ap-
plications to the assemblies of Maryland & Virginia on
the business of the Potomac Company, and the result
thereof, have been duly received.

The last dated the 2ist. I directed Mr. Dandridge
to show to Mr. Myers (knowing the suspence in which
he was held) and to add, that if upon the strength of
the information therein, he inclined to visit the Direct-
ors, I would give him a line of introduction. This com-
munication produced the enclosed letter from him: —
but Mr. Dandridge having expressed no more, than he
was directed to do, there is no commitment.

I mention this because the letter of Mr. Myers seems
to imply more; and as much depends upon the skill,
industry & other qualifications of an Engineer, or per-
son employed in such a work, that you may examine
him critically yourselves ; for it is proper I should ob-
serve, that I have no other knowledge of Mr. Myer's

ioo LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

fitness, than what is derived from his own acct — &
some papers which he has shown, but which I had not
leisure to examine correctly.

The post hour having arrived, I have only time to
add, that we are all well — & join in affectionate regards
to you & yours.

Yours always

No. 64.

PHILADELPHIA, 26th. Deer. 1795.
Dear Sir,

This letter will be handed to you by Capt. Myers, of
whom I have made mention in a former letter.

Being desirous of knowing whether the directors of
the Potomac Company are disposed to employ him as
an engineer & Superintendant of their lock navigation,
and on what terms, he has resolved to wait on them for
those purposes.

The tes imonials of his skill as an Architect, and of
his knowledge relative to Locks, &c. will I presume be
presented to you. These with such further inquiries
as prudence may induce you to make, will enable you
to decide on your measures, and thereby place Capt.
Myers on the ground of Certainty. With great esteem
& regard I am dear sir

Your Affecte. Servt.

P. S.

Since this letter has been written, yours of the 23d.
has been reed. & shown to Capt. Myers.

PHILADELPHIA i$th Feby 1796.
MR. TOBIAS LEAR
My dear Sir,

On thursday last I reed your letter of (now in

the hands of Colo Pickering & date not remembered.)

IOI

The business relative to the arsenal at the mouth of
Shenandoah, has been shamefully neglected: — and
(but under the rose I make the Observation) I fear with
design; — for I was continually reminding the officer
whose duty it was to carry the measure into effect, of
the improvident delay; and about a fortnight after
finding the matter remained in Statu quo., I gave a
peremptory order for the execution : And was informed
since by the Gentleman, that he had written to you
on the subject. — How it comes to pass that you
should be ignorant of this at the date of your letter, —
there being sufficient time for the receipt of the former,
is somewhat mysterious. Allowances ought unques-
tionably to be made for the multiplied duties of two
offices, which were discharged by one person, — but the
footing of which this business stood, and my frequent
enquiries into it — ought to have produced more prompt-
ness in the Execution. I hope no change in Price will
force a Change of Place ; — And that the thing will go
on as if no delay had hapned.

I am very glad to find that the affairs of the poto-
mack Company, are in so promising a train, and wish
Capt Myres' may prove an acquisition in the superin-
tendance of them.

I pray you to let me have a statement of my account
with you; — and for informing me precisely what Shares
I hold in the Banks of Alexandria & Columbia. My
love to Fanny & the Children And with very great
esteem & regard I remain

Your affecte friend & Servt

Go WASHINGTON

P. S. Mr White seems to entertain no doubt of a
favorable issue to his Mission — but it goes (as every
thing else does) slowly on.

102 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

No. 65.

PHILADELPHIA, i3th. Mar. 1796.

My dear Sir,

Your letters of the 26th. Ulto. and 26.. Instant, came
safe to hand, after some delay. The first, with the Will
of Harper, has been put into the hands of the attorney
Genl. to aid him in the conveyances. To such parts of
the second as require it, I am about to reply ; first ex-
pressing my satisfaction at the happy termination of
the business which you undertook in behalf of the
public.

Having no doubt of the correctness of the account,
which was transmited in the last mentioned letters ; I
have only to beg that you would favor me with the
numbers — or other designation or description, of all
the shares I now hold, in the Banks of Alexandria &
Columbia, by your purchases, — and to request if you
wish to part with any of the twenty shares you pur-
chased in the Potomac Navigation, that you would ap-
propriate the balance due me, by your account, in as
many as it will command ; — first paying up the Install-
ment on the old; called for I perceive to be paid on
the first of the present month. If my present purposes
and gratifications could be answered by prospects of
future emolument, I would devote all the money I
could command, to this Investiture ; — but for the few
Years I have to remain here, the enjoyment of less,
with ease & certainty, will be more convenient and
desirable.

If my resources were adequate to the purchase of the
lots and houses which are offered for sale in Alexandria,
I would gladly have been the purchaser of them on the
terms mentioned in your letter of the 2d. Inst. but as
these depend upon contingencies which may baffle cal-
culation, I chuse to tread on sure ground in all my en-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 103

gagements, being as unwilling to embarrass others by
uncertain contracts, as I am to be deceived myself in
my expectations from the assurances which I receive
of promised paymt.

From the enquiries which have already been made of
you, relatively to my Farms at Mount Vernon, I take
the liberty of enclosing you the terms, on which I mean
to lease them. My expectation of disposing of them at
the Rents therein mentioned, to such tenants as I
should chuse, is not very sanguine; — nor would I in-
cline to do it to the slovenly farmers of this Country;
if I had a tolerably well founded hope of getting them
from any other, where husbandry is better understood,
and more rationally practiced, the mentioning of which
to some of your acquaintance, as you may chance to
fall in with them (particularly the English & Scotch,
the latter more especially) might be a means perhaps,
of their suggesting it to others in the land they came
from.

It is not my intention, at least at the present mo-
ment, to let the negroes go with the land, — but if en-
quiries on this head should be repeated, it might be
useful to me to learn on what terms, these and the
Lands conjointly, could be disposed of. Remember me
kindly to Fanny & the children, and be assured of the
Sincere friendship of Yr. Arlecte. Servt.

No. 66.

PHILADELPHIA, 2ist. Mar. 1796.
My dear Sir,

Your letter of the i4th. Inst. did not get to my hands
until Saturday. Mine dated the i3th. acknowledging
the receipt of your favors of the 26th. Ulto. & 2d.
inst. must I presume have been received in due course of
the Post, and therefore to repeat the contents of it is
unnecessary.

io4 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

A Mr. Summers of Alexandria is very desirous of
purchasing my vacant lot in that Town ; — and having
been told that nothing short of a high price would in-
duce me to sell it, makes the offer contained in the en-
closed letters. Whether this offer is high or otherwise,
depends upon comparison, the means of doing which is
not within my reach, but thro' the medium of another,
& therefore I give you the trouble of making some
inquiry in the matter at any time when you are in
Alexandria. I have no wish to part with the lot, un-
less I can do it upon advantageous terms; and can
dispose of the money in a more productive manner.
I had thoughts of building on it, but this would be
attended with trouble and perhaps a good deal of impo-
sition, as it could not be properly attended to in the ex-
ecution of the work. And besides workman's wages,
and materials are very high at this time.

A thought has run through my mind (since I began
this letter) whether, as I have a prospect from the high
price of flour, of raising five or six thousand dollars
from the same of it ; it might not be eligable with that
sum & the sale of the vacant lot (to Summers) to make
the purchase suggested in one of your former letters
to me? If that property is in an eligable place (and I
wish to know where it lies) or whether or not if it would
bring ten P. Cent on the purchase money, it would cer-
tainly be more immediately advantageous to me than
to let a part of the sum, necessary to command it, lay
dead in a vacant lot, which when built on, would only
be to let. Mr. Dandridge's ansr. to Mr. Summer's
enclosed, is left open for your perusal and may be
delivered to him or not, at any time you may find it
convenient.

As the Post hour is at hand and I have many letters
to close, & prepare for the mail, I hardly know what I
have written, or whether you will be able fully to

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 105

comprehend my meaning. My love in which Mrs.
Washington unites is presented to Fanny & the
children, and I am Dear Sir

Your Affecte. Servt.

PHILADELPHIA 27th March 1796

MR TOBIAS LEAR,

My Dear Sir,

Your letters of the 2ist & 23d Inst have filled us
with pain and anxiety ; from which probably, we shall
not be relieved before tuesday; tho' we shall hope on
that day to hear that both Fanny, and Maria are much
better, if not entirely recovered.

Upon receipt of the first of the letters above men-
tioned, I made immediate enquiry in what train the
business respecting the Arsenal on Potomack was in,
and have since been informed by the (present) secre-
tary of War, that he has written to you on the subject.
I wish sincerely that the sickness in your family, had
not prevented your journey to this City, & that it may
not retard it much longer as the Departments at this
juncture are so full of business as to require more
attention, and urging in particular matters than the
pressure of my own allows me to bestow.

When you come we will make room for you to lodge
in some manner or other, as the only spare room we
have will I expect be occupied by Young Fayette & his
Tutor.

I wish devoutly, in which Mrs. Washington cor-
dially unites, that this letter may find Fanny & Maria
perfectly restored. My best regards to them & with
affection

I am always Yours

Go WASHINGTON

io6 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

No. 67.

PHILADELPHIA, 3oth. March 1796.
My dear Sir,

Your former letters prepared us for the stroke, which
that of the 25th. Inst. announced, but it has fallen
heavily notwithstanding.

It is the nature of humanity to mourn for the loss of
our friends, and the more we loved them the more
poignant is our grief. It is part of the precepts of reli-
gion & Philosophy, to consider the dispensations of
Providence as wise, immutable, uncontroulable ; of
course that it is our duty to submit with as little
repining as the sensibility of our natures is capable, to
all its decrees. But nature will, notwithstanding,
endulge for a while its sorrows.

To say how much we loved & esteemed our departed
friend is unnecessary. She is now no more! — but she
must be happy, because her virtue has a claim to it.

As you talked of coming to this place on business let
us press you to do so. The same Room that serves Mr.
Dandridge & Washington is large enough to receive a
bed also for you ; — and it is needless to add we shall be
glad of your Company. The change may be service-
able to you, and if our wishes were of any avail, they
would induce you to make your stay here, as long as
your convenience would permit.

At all times, and under all circumstances, we are and
ever shall remain, Your Sincere and

Affecte. friends
Go. WASHINGTON
M. WASHINGTON

No. 68.

PHILADELPHIA, 4th. April, 1796.
My dear Sir,

As your letter of the 3oth.Ulto. gives me room to ex-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 107

pect you here in a few days. I shall do no more than
acknowledge the receipt of it, repeat the request con-
tained in a joint letter (written by Mrs. Washington
and myself to you) of the 3oth.Ulto. — and request,
if a vessel from Liverpool called the Commerce, com-
manded by Capt. Tuttle should have arrived at George
Town, that Mr. Pearce may have immediate notice of
it, as there will be in it two Sacks of field Peas & some
other seeds for me in her, which ought now to be in the
ground.

With sincerity & affection

I am — Yrs.

No. 69.

PHILADELPHIA, 29th. April, 1796.
My dear Sir,

Yesterday's Post brought me the letters which had
arrived in the Commerce, Capt. Tuttell; enclosing In-
voice and Bill of lading for the long expected Seeds
(which by the by have cost me at least four times as
much as I expected.

The Invoice and Bill of lading are now sent to you
lest from the want of them, any difficulty or delay
should arise on the account of the duties, and they are
accompanied with an earnest request that the packages
may be forwarded to Mr. Pearce with as little delay as
possible, the season for sowing the Peas & Succory be-
ing already far advanced. The winter vetch cannot
be sown before autumn.

If you incline to try some of these seeds at your farm,
you are very welcome to part of each sort. When the
purposes for which Mr. Murray's letter, Invoice & Bill
of lading are sent, are answered be so good as to return
them to

Dear Sir

Your Affecte. Servt.

io8 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

P. S.

If the seeds should before the arrival of this letter,
have been sent to Mount Vernon, I pray you to con-
trive the one, by some safe conveyance to Mr. Pearce.
And Washington requests you will send the letter he
has written to his sister Peter. It relates to their Car-
riages & some other matters entrusted to his enquiries.

No. 70.

PHILADELPHIA, 6th. May 1796.

Dear Sir,

This letter will be put into your hands by Mr. Vol-
ney, who proposes to visit the Federal City. If you
are not acquainted with him personally, I am sure
you must have a knowledge of his character, his
travels, & works, — I therefore recommend him to your
civilities ; while he remains in the Federal City.
I am always & Sincerely Yours

No. 71.

PHILADELPHIA, 3d. of June, 1796.

My dear Sir,

Your letter of the 3oth. Ulto. was received yesterday.
As I expect (nothing new and unforeseen happening to
prevent it) to commence my journey, for Mount Ver-
non in ten or twelve days, I shall enter into no details
respecting the matters touched upon in your letter of
the above date.

The chief design of my writing to you by this post
is to inform you that your good mother and lovely son
arrived in this City on Tuesday morning; and left
it yesterday about ten o'clock, on their way to the
Federal City. Mrs. Lear is very well and Lincoln as
sprightly as ever ; but both disappointed at not meet-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 109

ing you here. It was with great difficulty a carriage
could be procured to take her on; for it so happened
that Congress closed their Session yesterday — that the
members were strugling for, & bidding on each other
for conveyances — and your mother's anxious desire to
get to you, would not permit her to wait. At length
after some unavailing attempts, Mr. Craik succeeded
in getting a carriage & pair of horses, which I hope
will take her safely down.

I will send sugar & some other things from hence.
We are all well as usual & join in best wishes for you.
With sincere Esteem, & regard

I am Your Affectionate

P. S.

A Mr. Fresco tt attends Mrs. Lear & Lincoln — and
it is not unlikely as the weather is cool, but that they
may be with you as soon as this letter, as the Post does
not travel on Sunday. I did not know untill after the
Post had left the City on Wednesday, that Mrs. Lear
was in it, or expected, or you should have been advised
of the circumstances by the mail of that day.

No. 72.

PHILADELPHIA, i6th. Novr. 1796.

My dear Sir,

I hardly know what apology to make for the positive
manner in which I declared the Certificate for the hun-
dred Shares in the Bank of Columbia, had never been
in my hands. The fact is otherwise, and I delay no
time to correct any error.

I found it last night and account for it thus. Given
to me, I suppose, (for I have not the most obscure rec-
ollection of the circumstance) at a time when my
mind was occupied on, or immediately called to, some

no LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

other subject, I put it loose in my traveling Chaise-box,
where papers (frequently wanted at Mount Vernon)
always remained, intending I presume to file it with the
other Certificates, in the same box; but not doing it
then, and forgetting to do it afterwards, as also of every
recollection of having seen it, it might have remained
there till dooms -day undiscovered, if I had not, for an-
other purpose, examined every paper therein, separately
and by that means found the Certificate which has puz-
zled both you and me to know what had become of it.

Mr. Dandridge (as I presume he has informed you)
applied without encouragement to the Revd. Mr.Medor
of this City (one of the Moravian clergy) for the speedy
admission of Maria into the School for Young ladies at
Bethlehem. Since then I have written to the principal
of that School, the Revd. Mr. Van Vleck, but have not
received his answer. When it comes I will forward it
to you.

Mr. Smith of Alexandria to whom my flour was sold,
is craving earnestly a prolongation of payment, ninety
days. This I do not like for two reasons — i — because
it carries along with it distrust of his circumstances ; —
and 2 — because the doing of it would be inconvenient,
and a derangement of my own measures. I have how-
ever not wanting to distress him, placed the matter
upon the following ground. Pay Mr. Pearce the aggre-
gate of his estimate of the sums necessary to pay his
own wages; — the overseers; — & other incidental ex-
pences of the estate on or before the 24th, of next
month, & I will wait until the first day of March next
for the balance — provided he can and will give
indubitable surety that both these shall be done.

As Mr. Pearce may not be well acquainted with
business of this sort, or indeed with the adequacy of
the security which may be offered personal or real — I
have taken the liberty of mentioning the matter to

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON in

you — praying, if you should go down to your farm, that
you would aid him with your advice.

Washington Custis has got settled at Princeton Col-
lege, and I think under favorable auspices; but the
change from his former habits is so great & sudden, and
his hours for study so much encreased, beyond what
he has been accustomed to, that though he promises
to be attentive, it is easy to be perceived, he is not at all
reconciled to it yet. That of getting up an hour before
day to commence them, is, I will venture to pronounce,
not the least irksome to him at present.

Offer my respects to Mrs. Lear & love to the children,
in which Mrs. Washington unites. — And be assured of
the sincere esteem & regard of

Dear Sir Your Affecte. friend

No. 73.

PHILADELPHIA, 25th. Novr. 1796.

My dear Sir,

Your letter of the 2oth. Inst. was reed, yesterday,
and the principal design of this is to cover the Copy of
a letter from Mr. Van Vleck to me, respecting the re-
ception of Maria at the School for young ladies in
Bethlehem. It will be necessary for you to fix (for I
presume it will be necessary that Mr. Van Vleck
should know) precisely when she will enter ; for as he is
pressed by others, and receiving Maria may be con-
sidered as a favour (at this time) I would wish the
matter to be regulated with punctuality.

As you and Mr. Pearce both seem to think that the
security offered by Alexander Smith is, under present
appearances good, I will not now ask for any other,
but as it may be in your way to discover, without much
inquiry or trouble, how matters work in Alexandria be-
fore March, I would thank you for advice if in your

ii2 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

judgment it should become expedient for me to resort
to further means for the security of the sum which will
be due me at that time from him.

I am sorry to hear your Crop of Wheat turned
out so indifferently — mine I expect will be, proportion-
tely no better. But all these things only serve as
evidences to convince me, that if we were to reduce
our cultivation, or rather grounds, to half the present
quantity, and manure and till that half well, that our
profits would be greater; while the other half would
be improving. But this is a subject too copious for
my present occupations, to allow time to enter upon.
And therefore I will add nothing further at this time,
than that the family are all (except Mr. Frestal) well
and unite in best wishes for you & Yours, with
Dear Sir

Your sincere friend &
Affecte. Servt.

No. 74.

PHILADELPHIA, i4th. Deer. 1796.
My dear Sir,

Immediately upon the receipt of your letter of the
2d. Inst. I sent a transcript of so much of it as related
to Maria, and the daughter of Colo. Ball, to Mr. Van
Vleck; with a request that he would answer the queries
which were propounded therein under a cover to me.
Enclosed is his answer and of course you will inform
Colo. Ball thereof.

As I know that many unsuccessful applications had
been made for admission into the young ladies' school
at Bethlehem about the time I wrote to Mr. Van Vleck,
the reception of Maria & her cousin must be considered
as a particular favor, and Col. Ball should make a
point of it, to be exact in complying with the requisi-
tions, that are enumerated in the Director's letter.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 113

A treatise on the improvement of Canal Navigation,
came to my hands by Doctr. Edwards, as a present
from the author a few days ago. As I shall have no
time to look into it while I remain in this City, I make
a deposit of it with you until I return to Mount Vernon.
According to Doctr. Edwards' acct. Fulton's system is
puting Lock navigation out of vogue. I have not read a
page in the Book, but if the Potomac Company can ex-
tract any thing useful from it, I shall feel happy in hav-
ing sent it to you. We are all well except having bad
Colds ; and join in best wishes for yourself and family.
I am Your Affecte.

P. S.

As you communicate much with the upper Country,
Mrs. Washington requests the favor of you to procure
for our use, about 200 weight of good butter against
the first of March by the middle of which I trust I shall
be a resident at Mount Vernon.

No. 74A-

PHILADELPHIA i3th Jany 1797

MR TOBIAS LEAR,

My dear Sir,

It is nearly if not quite a month since I enclosed you
a letter from the Revd Mr Van Vleck, agreeing to
take Colo Balls daughter along with Maria.

In that letter he mentioned his terms; — his wishes
to know their exact ages; — and informed you what
necessaries they ought to come provided with. To
these I added that knowing many unsuccessful attempts
had been made, to get girls admitted to that School the
reception of Maria & her cousin, ought to be considered
as a favor ; and hoped that Colo Ball would be pointed
in complying with the terms & requisitions. I requested
too that you would write Mr Van Vleck (I think I
added under cover to me) the precise time the Girls

ii4 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

were to enter. Since then I have heard nothing from
you on this subject.

That letter was accompanied wth Fultons Treatise
(quarto) on the improvement of Canal navigation,
which I meant to deposit in your hands until my re-
turn to Mount Vernon. No acknowledgement of
this neither, leads me to apprehend a miscarriage of
them & is the cause of these details.

Another subject indeed has stimulated the present
address. I have been asked with a degree of solici-
tude from the War office to what cause is to be ascribed
the non execution, or not coming forward of the Deed
for the Land on which the arsenal on Shanandoah
is to be erected, as these were promised in a letter
from you dated early in August; since which noth-
ing has been communicated; and is embarrassing to
that Department ; as the necessary Items & information
cannot accompany the Accounts of it in the manner
that is expected ; — On many accounts I hope this mat-
ter will come forward without delay and particularly
for the reasons I have mentioned.

With sincere esteem & regard

I am your affectionate

Go WASHINGTON

No. 75.

CHESTER Qth. March, 1797.

My dear Sir,

Thus far we have arrived safe, but found it disagree-
ably cold.

To give the greater surety to the large looking
Glasses, and such other articles as are liable to be in-
jured by the jolting of a dray; be so good as to have
taken down by hand, and stowed where they will not
be trod on; or tossed about in the Vessel's hold.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 115

The grate (from Mr. Morris's) pray have packed
first in some of the old Carpeting to keep it from scratch-
ing. The bedstead which Nelly Custis slept on belongs
(Mrs. Washington says) to me. Let this and the
trundle under it be sent in the Vessel.

I question whether enough of the small hooks were
got;— <Iesire Mr. Dandridge to get a couple of dozen
more, like the two he took out of my Room yesterday, —
and he was to have got me small awls, but I believe did
not do it. I wish it to be done.

Mr. Hill told me he had done something (but what
I do not recollect) with the livery clothes ; I pray you
to enquire and know they are sent around.

Mr. Slough of Lancaster had 600 dollars sent him to
buy Horses: £160 of which was expended. The bal-
ance after deducting incidental expences I expected to
have reed, before I left Philadelphia ; but did not, and
forgot to mention it.

The newly published Pamphlets, pray purchase, and
bring with you for me; Mr. Dandridge knows what I
already have. Desire Peter Porcupine's Gazette to
be sent to me (as a Subscriber).

If there be means left after I have fairly and honor-
able discharged all the claims upon myself let Mr. Dan-
dridge (if he should have occasion for it) have to the a-
mount of 200 or two hundred & fifty Dollars, to provide
such necessaries as he may require for his voyage to be
returned when convenient to him.

When the point at which the Vessel can sail is ascer-
tained; advise me of it by letter. I wish you & all
with you, every thing you wish yourselves — and am
Sincerely & Affectionately
Yrs.

P. S.

On one side I am called upon to remember the Parrot,

n6 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

on the other to remember the dog. For my own part
I should not pine much if both were forgot.

No. 76.

HEAD OF ELK zoth. of March 1797

My dear Sir,

We arrived at this place to dinner and shall remain
all night. To morrow we shall proceed but slowly.

As I have missed the Post of this afternoon, and an-
other does not happen until Monday it is probable this
letter will not reach your hands in time. If the case
however should be otherwise, and you have means to
accomplish it, let me request you to provide for me as
usual new Carpeting as will cover the floor of my blue
Parlour. That it may accord with the furniture it
ought to have a good deal of blue in it ; — and if Wilton
is not much dearer than Scotch Carpeting — I would
prefer the former. All the old Carpeting (belonging to
me) I would have sent; — and Mrs. Washington re-
quests that you would add the Bellows and the Vessels
(Iron & Tin) in which the ashes are carried out. If
two pair of new Bellows were added to the old, (and of
a better kind) it would be desirable.

I pray you to desire Mr. Kitt to make all the en-
quiry he can after Hercules, and send him round in the
Vessel if he can be discovered & apprehended.

I am always & Affectionately Yrs.

P. S.

The parlour is about 18 foot Square — a suitable
border if to be had, should accompany the Carpeting.
Pray get me of those Thermometers that tells the state
of the Mercury within the 24 hours — Doctor Priestly
or Mr. Madison can tell where it is to be had. Per-
haps the old one if no thing better, may do to present to

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 117

Mr. Snowden, according to his letter to me left with

you.

No. 77.

BALTIMORE, i2th. Mar. 1797.

My dear Sir,

As I ride on matters occur to me and I shall take the
chance of mentioning them to you before you may have
left Philadelphia. A boat was bespoke, but no direc-
tion given either for the payment or mode of getting it
round. My credit is at stake as it respects the first,
and my interest as it regards the second, and I shall be
obliged to you for seeing how both can be promoted.

It is incumbent on me also to pay rent up to the
time the house is surrendered, and to see that it is
made clean and delivered up in good order. I have
several times mentioned this to Mr. Dandridge and
pressed it upon Mr. Kitt; — & trust it will be done.
The furniture belonging to the public ought to have
been well cleaned, as well as the Rooms before they
were turned over to the President's order, with the
Papers.

Let me request the favour of you to purchase for me
half a dozen pair of the best kind of White Silk stock-
ings (not those with gores but) to be large, and with
small clocks (I think they are called) I want the same
number of raw silk, for boot stockings; large and
strong.

In my last from Elkton I mentioned the want of a
Carpet for my parlour at Mount Vernon; — and ob-
served that as the furniture was blue, the ground or
principal flowers in it ought to be blue also ; — & that if
Wilton Carpeting was not much dearer than Scotch
I should prefer it. Mrs. Washington says there is a
kind different from both much in use (Russia) if not
dearer or but little more so than the former I would

n8 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

have it got. The Room is about 18 feet Square, and
the Carpet should have a suitable border if to be had.
This letter may get to your hands on Tuesday morning
and on the Post of Wednesday a line or two inform-
ing when the goods will be on board, & the Vessel will
sail, will be very agreeable to
My dear Sir

Your Affectionate friend & Servt.

No. 78.

MOUNT VERNON 25th. Mar. 1797.

My dear Sir,

Your letter of the aoth. Inst. with the Bill of lading
for the Goods in the Sloop Salem, — and another letter
of the 1 5th. are both received; and I hope this will
find you safely arrived in the Federal City.

I have got painters at work in order to prepare my
rooms for the furniture which is expected but I find I
have begun at the wrong end, for some joiner's work
(of the deficiency of which I was ignorant before it was
examined) ought to have preceded theirs as the fixing
of the chimney pieces ought also to do. The first I
have engaged, but cannot on enquiry find that a Skilful
hand is to be had in Alexandria to execute the latter.
I would thank you therefore for engaging one, if to be
had, in the Federal City or George Town, to be here on
Monday or Tuesday at farthest, as my work will be at a
stand without. To prevent imposition & to avoid dis-
putes, I would prefer employing the artisan by the day.
The work immediately foreseen and which must be done
without delay, is to refix the marble Chimney piece in
the parlour, which is almost falling out, to fix the new
one (expected from Philadelphia) in the small dining
Room ; to remove the one now there, into what is called
the School room, — to fix the grate which is coming

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 119

round in the large dining room ; — and to give some re-
pairs to the steps ; which (like most things else I have
looked into since I have been at home) are sadly out of
repair.

Tis possible either of the Commissioners or Capt.
Hoben could point out a proper Character, as they have
had to do with the best workmen ; and 'tis possible, but
I do not think it very probable, that Cornelius (my old
servant) might be competent to do it. Two things
however are necessary — viz — skill & dispatch. Our
best regards are presented to all with you, — and I am
your Sincere friend & Affecte. Servant
P. S.

If Cornelius had knowledge in practice or theory
sufficient for the job, — I should be disposed to give him
a preference ; — first, because I am acquainted with his
temper and industry; — and 2dly. because I foresee
many other things, in his line, that must be done as
fast as I can accomplish them ; by engaging a workman
upon moderate terms, make Bricks — or raise stone &
procure lime.

The Winds have been favorable for Capt. Elkins but
we see no thing of his Sloop yet. As soon as it arrives
I will let you know, as it would be very pleasing to me
to have you here at that time.
Yrs. &c.

No. 79.

MOUNT VERNON loth. July 1797.
My dear Sir,

If nothing happens more than I foresee to prevent
it, — I propose to be in the Federal City on Monday or
Tuesday in next week; but it will depend on your
being there. I request therefore to be informed by
the Post if this will be the case ; or whether business at
that time will call you from it.

120 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

When that far I shall extend my ride to the little
and great falls of the River, — at the last of which I have
not been these eight or nine Years.

I am Your Affectionate

No. 80.

3ist. July 1797.

Dear Sir,

I am alone at present, and shall be glad to see you
this evening.

Unless some one pops in, unexpectedly — Mrs. Wash-
ington & myself will do what I believe has not been
done within the last twenty Years by us, — that is to set
down to dinner by ourselves. I am
Your affectionate

No. 81.

MOUNT VERNON, loth. Septr. 1797.

Dear Sir,

I have almost determined to build the Walls of the
house intended for a Distillery (at my Mill) of Stone,
for the sake of expedition, as the Carpenters' work can
be carried on at the same time. Having this in con-
templation I would thank you for informing at what
price foundation stone from the falls could be delivered
to a Boat as near to my Mill as the Vessel could get &
whether any person would undertake the delivery
there accordingly.*

When I was last at your house Capt. Prescott was
landing a number of Shingles. Pray inform me if he
has any now for sale? the length & average breadth,
and the price? Is Cornelius disengaged? Could he
be had to assist in my building? Could any other be

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 121

obtained and on what terms? In much haste dinner
waiting

I am Yrs.

* I shall use free stone from my own Quarry for
the building above the foundation.

No. 82.

MOUNT VERNON nth. Septr. 1797.

Dear Sir,

Your letter of the 8th. inst. was given to me yes-
terday by Mr. John Bassett.

If you had intimated a wish to Lease my River farm,
a month or two ago, all matters might have been with
ease arranged before this ; but as I had heard nothing
in that time from the English farmer who had been in
Treaty for it, I had relinquished the idea of letting it
next year; & in consequence have engaged Stuart, —
Sown the principal part of my winter grain, — and made
all the necessary dispositions for the ensuing Season.
I do not therefore, at this moment, see how they can be
dispenced with. If upon further reflection on the sub-
ject, and a consultation with Mr. Anderson, the meas-
ure can be gone into, without involving difficulties,
which cannot be easily surmounted, you shall hear fur-
ther from me on this subject — and learn more minutely
the details of my Plan, and the conditions on which
the farm will be let ; — for these will be specific, and
exacted from the Tenant whomsoever he may be.

If that Farm is not rented next year, there is nearly
a moral certainty (if I am alive) it will be so the Year
after ; — my object being to reduce my income to a cer-
tainty; and to get relieved in my latter years (if I have
any to pass) of the trouble and perplexities incident to
such an estate as mine is, from the constitution of it.

122 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Although nothing (except the Rent P. Acre) is def-
initely fixed in my own mind relative to the precise
terms on which I propose to lease my Farms, — yet, to
give you a more comprehensive view of my ideas in
these respects, I enclose you a printed advertisement
of them ; published near two years since ; my thoughts
upon the subject at that period; and Mr. Anderson's
sketch of a lease, when application was made for River
farm, by the person before alluded to; that you may
gather, from thence the outlines of my views and in-
tention; and more particularly, that you might not be
under a mistake with regard to the Fisheries (which
has always been considered as distinct objects al-
though they might be united in the same lease) the
Stipes of old field without the present fences ; — and the
wood land ; — not an acre of which will be suffered to be
cleared, for the purpose of cultivation (the swamps
and Pocosons on the Creek and River excepted) nor a
stick carried off the premises for any purpose whatso-
ever;— nor used thereon except in the manner, — and
for the purposes which are mentioned in one or more of
the enclosed papers.

After perusing the manuscript ones I beg they may
be returned by the Post, as I have no Copy of either.
With great esteem & regard, I am dear Sir

Your Affecte.

No. 83.

*MOUNT VERNON 24th. Oct. 1797.

Dear Sir,

You ask what is absolutely out of my power to com-
ply with, unless I was to place myself exactly in the
situation you represent yourself to be in (without con-
verting Bank stock into Cash, which I am not inclined
to do) — that is, unprepared to face my own engage-

OP GEORGE WASHINGTON 123

ments, — which for Wheat, Rye, Workmens wages &ca.
&ca. are hourly coming upon me, & expected. Three
thousand dollars (without going into a correct exami-
nation of the acct.) is more than I have in the Bank
of Alexandria and (for running calls) in my Desk.

Had you asked for a thousand dollars of these, or if
that sum would answer any valuable purpose I would,
inconvenient as it might prove to me, give a check on
the Bank. Your letter being just presented, com-
pany here, & dinner ready, I can only add that I am
Yr. Obed. & Affecte.

* From Washington's letter-press copy in
The New York Public Library.

No. 84.

MOUNT VERNON, loth. Novr. 1797.
Dear Sir,

I have received both of your letters dated Yesterday,
& thank you for the information given in them. If
Mr. Liston's arrangement to proceed from Alexandria
to this place by Water appeared to you to proceed from
the want of Carriages (for I do not know in what man-
ner he got to the City) say to him that you are sure
mine would attend upon him at any hour he would
name at that place to bring as many of them as it
would contain to Mount Vernon. This however, as the
presumption is that I am unacquainted with his in-
tentions and movements, must go as from yourself.
Yours always & Affecte.

No. 85.

MOUNT VERNON 26th. April 1798.
Dear Sir,

If Stuart can spare a Stear, you may keep the one
you got from thence, and pay for him in kind.

i24 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Fishing hitherto has been very unsuccessful at my
landing — more were caught last night and this morn-
ing (since I have not heard from thence) than in the
same space at any time before since it Commenced, &
unless it continues for some days my expences will
not be reimbursed.

Have you written to Cornelius? What answer? It
is necessary for me to know whether I am to depend
upon him or not. I am glad to hear the boys are well.
My love to them. I am

Your Affectionate

No. 86.

MOUNT VERNON 226.. July, 1798.

Dear Sir,

I am very sorry to learn by Mr.Dalton's family (now
here) that your ague and fever stick by you. If not
such as to confine you, your Coming & remaining here
while his visit lasts wd. be a kindness to me and
company for him; many matters pressing upon me
at this time, that cannot, without much inconvenience
be postponed, will not suffer me to pay him those
attentions I could wish.

I am Your friend &
Affecte. Servt.

No. 87.

MOUNT VERNON 2d. Augt. 1798.

Dear Sir,

I was glad to hear by Charles that you were much
better, than when we saw you last. If you have
missed the ague care, and Bark, is necessary to pre-
vent a relapse ; & this prudence requires.

Monday next being the day fixed on by the Con-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 125

stitution of the Potomac Company for their Annual
meeting, and as you seem resolved to relinquish your
present office as President, — I wish you would turn
your thoughts attentively to the situation of it, and
revolve seriously on characters fit, and proper to supply
the places, of those who perhaps ought to, as well as
those who will quit the Directorship ; that our struggles
in that interesting and expencive concern — the labour
of years, may not end in disgrace & loss.

The little leisure I had before my late appointment
(from visits, — my necessary rides-— & other occurren-
cies) to overhaul, arrange & separate papers of real,
from those of little or no value, is now, by that event,
so much encroached upon by personal & written ap-
plications for Offices, & other matters incidental to the
situation of the Commander in Chief, that without as-
sistance I must abandon all idea of accomplishing this
necessary work before I embark in new scenes, which
will render them more voluminous, & of course more
difficult, — a measure which would be extremely irk-
some to me to submit to, especially as it respects my
accts. — which are yet in a jumble — my earnest wish
and desire being when I quit the stage of human action,
to leave all matters in such a situation, as to give as
little trouble as possible to those who will have the
management of them thereafter.

Under this view of my situtation, — which is far from
being an agreeable one; — and at times fills me with
deep concern — when I perceive so little prospect of
complete extrication — I have written to the Secretary
of War to be informed whether (as my taking the field
is contingent, & no pay or emolument will accrue to
myself until! then) I am at liberty to appoint my Sec-
retary immediately; who shall be allowed his pay and
Forage from the moment he joins me. If he answers
in the affirmative on those terms, can you do this?

i26 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Have you heard from the master of the Academy at
Charlestown? At any rate my opinion is you had bet-
ter, with the least possible delay get the boys fixed
permanently at some good School, — they will other-
wise loose precious moments. Let me hear from you.
I am in haste but always

Your Affecttionate

No. 88.

Thursday night

3oth. Augt. 1798.

Dear Sir,

I have, at length, received the President's answer
(through the Secretary of War) to my request to be
allowed a Secretary, who gives it as his opinion that
I have an undoubted right to one, or all of my military
family, if I find it convenient, and that their pay &c.
will be allowed.

And the Secretary having thrown a mass of Papers
upon me which I have not looked into (being this mo-
ment arrived) I should be glad if you would now come
& take your station.

Yrs. always & Affectly.

No. 89.

MOUNT VERNON, March i8th. 1799.

Dear Sir,

I recollect no business of sufficient importance to re-
quire your return hither, sooner than Doctr. Thorn-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 127

ton conceives will allow him sufficient time to effect
your cure. Were the case however otherwise, far
would it be from me, to request this return before
so desirable an object is accomplished. I do not
therefore wish you to hurry it on account of my
business.

Charles takes a horse up for Washington, which I
pray may be sent to Mr. Laws — or wherever he is.

Mrs. Washington & myself are as you left us, & join
in best wishes for Doctor Thornton's success in your
Case. With very great esteem, & compliments to
enquiring friends I am

Your Affectionate

No. 90.

MOUNT VERNON a6th. March 1799.

Dear Sir,

Your letter of the 24th. Inst. enclosing one from
Major Rivardi was delivered to me last night.

It gives me pleasure that you are recovering from
your lameness, and repeat the wish contained in my
last that you would use the means for perfect restora-
tion, and remain as long with Doctr. Thornton as he
may conceive advisable.

With respect to the letter from Major Rivardi, it
would be proper to send it, by my direction, to Genl.
Hamilton that he may issue such orders in consequence
thereof as to him shall appear to suit the occasion ; in-
forming the Major thereof. Refering him to my for-
mer letter for the mode of his communications in future.

Mrs. Washington has had (it is now better) a very
bad Cold in other respects the family are as well as usu-

128 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

al, & unite with me in good wishes for you & Complts.
to Doctr. Thornton's family.

I am Yr. Sincere friend &
Affecte. Servt.

P. S.

If you should happen to see Mr. Blagden, pray ask
him when he expects to be in mortar — in other words,
when he expects to lay the foundation stone.

No. 91.

MOUNT VERNON 3ist. March 1799.

Dear Sir,

If perchance you should happen to see Mr. Blagden
before you leave the City, be so good as to get from him
a statement of the preparations for my buildings there-
in. I do not find by inquiry of Mr. Lewis, that there
is much show of this on the ground ! I advised strongly
that the foundation stone and lime, should be laid in
last Autumn, when the Roads were good ; — had this been
done the Work might have commenced (without the
the hazard of disappointment) with the opening of
Spring. Now, bad Roads, & multiplied excuses may
be a plea for the backwardness of the Work.

I pray you also to enquire if there be any advice of
the arrival of the Ship Hamilton (on board of which I
had six Hhds. of Tobo.) at London. We all unite in
best wishes for you — and I am Your Affecte friend

Do not forget my Gardener's
Dictionary at Mr. Laws,

OP GEORGE WASHINGTON 129

A TRUE COPY, MADE AT MRS. LEAKS

REQUEST, FROM THE DIARY

OF COL. LEAR:

Saturday, Deer. i4th. 1799.

This day being marked by an event which will be
memorable in the History of America, and perhaps of
the World, I shall give a particular statement of it, to
which I was an eye witness —

The last illness and death of
General Washington

On Thursday Deer. i2th. the General rode out to his
farms about ten o'clock, and did not return home till
past three. Soon after he went out the weather be-
came very bad, rain, hail, and snow falling alternately
with a cold wind: When he came in, I carried some
letters to him to frank, intending to send them to the
Post-Office in the evening. He franked the letters;
but said the Weather was too bad to send a servant to
the Office that evening. I observed to him that I was
afraid he had got wet; he said no, his great Coat had
kept him dry ; but his neck appeared to be wet, and the
snow was hanging upon his hair. He came to dinner
(which had been Waiting for him) without changing
his dress. In the evening he appeared as well as usual.

A heavy fall of snow took place on Friday (which
prevented the General from riding out as usual. He
had taken cold (undoubtedly from being so much ex-
posed the day before) and complained of a sore throat:
he however went out in the afternoon into the ground
between the House and the River to mark some trees

i3o LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

which were to be cut down in the improvement of that
spot. He had a Hoarseness which increased in the eve-
ning; but he made light of it. In the evening the Pa-
pers were brought from the Post Office, and he sat in the
Parlour, with Mrs. Washington & myself reading them
till about nine o'clock — when Mrs. W. went up into
Mrs. Lewis's room, who was confined in Child Bed, and
left the General & myself reading the papers. He was
very cheerful and when he met with anything interest-
ing or entertaining, he wd. read it aloud as well as his
hoarseness would permit him. He requested me to
read to him the debates of the Virginia Assembly on
the election of a Senator and a Governor; — and on hear-
ing Mr. Madison's observations respecting Mr. Monroe,
he appeared much affected and spoke with some de-
gree of asperity on the subject, which I endeavoured to
moderate, as I always did on such occasions. On his
retiring I observed to him that he had better take some-
thing to remove his cold. He answered no; " you
"know I never take any thing for a cold. Let it
"go as it came."

Between two & three o'clock on Saturday morning,
he awoke Mrs. Washington, and told her he was very
unwell, and had had an ague. She observed that he
could scarcely speak and breathed with difficulty; and
would have got up to call a Servant ; but he would not
permit her lest she should take cold. As soon as the
day appeared, the Woman (Caroline) went into the
Room to make a fire, and Mrs. Washington sent her im-
mediately to call me. I got up, put on my clothes as
quickly as possible, and went to his Chamber. Mrs.
Washington was then up, and related to me his being
taken ill as before stated. I found the General breath-
ing with difficulty, and hardly able to utter a word in-
telligibly. He desired that Mr. Rawlins (one of the
overseers) might be sent for to bleed him before the

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 131

Dr. could arrive. I dispatched a servant instantly for
Rawlins, and another for Dr. Craik, and returned again
to the General's Chamber, where I found him in the
same situation as I had left him. A mixture of Mo-
lasses, Vinegar & butter was prepared to try its effects
in the throat ; but he could not swallow a drop. When-
ever he attempted it he appeared to be distressed, con-
vulsed and almost suffocated. Rawlins came in soon
after sun rise, and prepared to bleed him. When the
arm was ready the General observing that Rawlins
appeared to be agitated, said, as well as he could speak
"Don't be afraid." And after the incision was made,
he observed, " The orifice is not large enough." How-
ever the blood ran pretty freely. Mrs. Washington
not knowing whether bleeding was proper or not in the
General's situation, begged that much might not be
taken from him, lest it should be injurious, and desired
me to stop it ; but when I was about to untie the string
the General put up his hand to prevent it, and as soon
as he could speak, said — "More, more." Mrs. Wash-
ington being still very uneasy lest too much blood
should be taken, it was stopped after taking about half
a pint. Finding that no relief was obtained from bleed-
ing, and that nothing would go down the throat, I pro-
posed bathing it externally with salvolatila, which was
done; and in the operation, which was with the hand,
and in the gentlest manner, he observed " tis very sore. "
A piece of flannel dip'd in salvolatila was put around
his neck, and his feet bathed in warm water; but
without affording any relief.

In the mean time, before Dr. Craik arrived Mrs.
Washington desired me to send for Dr. Brown of Post
Tobacco, whom Dr. Craik had recommended to be
called, if any case should ever occur that was seriously
alarming. I dispatched a messenger (Cyrus) immedi-
ately for Dr, Brown (between 8 & 9 o'clock). Dr.

i32 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Craik came in soon after, and upon examining the Gen-
eral, he put a blister of Cantharides on the throat, took
some more blood from him, and had a gargle of Vinegar
& sage tea, and ordered some Vinegar and hot water
for him to inhale the steam which he did ; — but in at-
tempting to use the gargle he was almost suffocated.
When the gargle came from his throat some phlegm
followed it, and he attempted to Cough, which the Doc-
tor encouraged him to do as much as possible ; but he
could only attempt it. About eleven o'clock Dr.
Craik requested that Dr. Dick might be sent for, as he
feared Dr. Brown would not come in time. A messen-
ger was accordingly dispatched for him. About this
time the General was bled again. No effect however
was produced by it, and he remained in the same state,
unable to swallow anything. A blister was adminis-
tered about 1 2 o'clock, which produced an evacuation ;
but caused no alteration in his complaint.

Dr. Dick came in about 3 o'clock, and Dr. Brown ar-
rived soon after. Upon Dr. Dick's seeing the General
and consulting a few minutes with Dr. Craik he was
bled again; the blood came very slow, was thick, and
did not produce any symptoms of fainting. Dr.
Brown came into the chamber soon after; and upon
feeling the General's pulse &c. the Physicians went out
together. Dr. Craik returned soon after. The General
could now swallow a little. Calomel & tarter em. were
administered, but without any effect.

About half past 4 o'clock he desired me to call Mrs.
Washington to his bed side, when he requested her to
go down into his room, and take from his desk two Wills
which she would find there, and bring them to him,
which she did. Upon looking at them he gave her one,
which he observed was useless, as being superseded by
the other, and desired her to burn it, which she did, and
took the other and put it into her Closet-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 133

After this was done, I returned to his bed side, and
took his hand. He said to me, " I find I am going, my
breath can not last long. I believed from the first that the
disorder would prove fatal. Do you arrange and record
all my late military letters and papers. Arrange my
accounts and settle my books, as you know more about them
than any one else, and let Mr. Rawlins finish recording
my other letters which he has begun." I told him this
should be done. He then asked if I recollected any-
thing which it was essential for him to do, as he had
but a very short time to continue among us. I told
him I could recollect nothing; but that I hoped he
was not so near his end ; he observed smiling, that he
certainly was, and that as it was the debt that all
must pay, he looked to the event with perfect resigna-
tion.

In the course of the afternoon he appeared to be in
great pain and distress, from the difficulty of breathing,
and frequently changed his position in the bed. On
these occasions I lay upon the bed, and endeavoured to
raise him, and turn him with as much care as possible.
He appeared penetrated with gratitude for my atten-
tions, & often said, I am afraid I shall fatigue you too
much, and upon my assuring him that I could feel noth-
ing but a wish to give him ease, he replied, " Well it is
a debt we must pay to each other, and I hope when you
want aid of this kind you will find it."

He asked when Mr. Lewis & Washington Custis
would return, (they were in New Kent) I told him
about the 2oth. of the month.

About 5 o'clock Dr. Craik came again into the room
& upon going to the bed side the Genl. said to him,
Doctor, I die hard; but I am not afraid to go; I believed
from my first attack that I should not survive it; my
breath can not last long.

The Doctor pressed his hand, but could not utter a

i34 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

word. He retired from the bed side, & sat by the fire
absorbed in grief.

Between 5 & 6 o'clk Dr. Dick & Dr. Brown came
into the room, and with Dr. Craik went to the bed;
when Dr. Craik asked him if he could sit up in the bed?
He held out his hand & I raised him up. He then said
to the Physicians, '* I feel myself going, I thank you for
"your attentions; but I pray you to take no more
"trouble about me, let me go off quietly, I can not last
"long." They found that all which had been done was
without effect; he laid down again and all retired ex-
cept Dr. Craik. He continued in the same situation,
uneasy & restless, but without complaining; fre-
quently asking what hour it was. When I helped him
to move at this time he did not speak, but looked at me
with strong expressions of gratitude.

About 8 o'clock the Physicians came again into the
room and applied blisters and cataplasms of wheat
bran to his legs and feet; after which they went out
(except Dr. Craik) without a ray of hope. I went out
about this time and wrote a line to Mr. Law & Mr.
Peter, requesting them to come with their wives (Mrs.
Washington's Granddaughters) as soon as possible to
Mt. Vernon.

About ten o'clk he made several attempts to speak
to me before he could effect it, at length he said, —
"/ am just going. Have me decently buried; and do
not let my body be put into the Vault in less than three
days after I am dead. " I bowed assent, for I could not
speak. He then looked at me again and said, "170 you
understand me? I replied "Yes." "TVs well" said he.

About ten minutes before he expired (which was be-
tween ten & eleven o 'elk) his breathing became easier ;
he lay quietly ; — he withdrew his hand from mine, and
felt his own pulse. I saw his countenance change. I
spoke to Dr. Craik who sat by the fire; — he came to

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 135

the bed side. The General's hand fell from his wrist —
I took it in mine and put it into my bosom. Dr.Craik
put his hands over his eyes and he expired without a
struggle or a sigh!

While we were fixed in silent grief, Mrs . Washington
(who was sitting at the foot of the bed) asked with a
firm & collected voice, Is he gone? I could not
speak, but held up my hand as a signal that he was no
more. 'Tis well, said she in the same voice, " All is
now over I shall soon follow him! I have no more trials
to pass through!"

OCCURRENCES NOT NOTED IN THE PRECEDING
NARRATIVE.

The General's servant Christopher was in the room
through the day ; and in the afternoon the General di-
rected him to sit down, as he had been standing almost
the whole day; he did so.

About 8 o'clock in the morning he expressed a de-
sire to get up. His clothes were put on and he was
led to a chair by the fire. He found no relief from this
position, and lay down again about 10 o'clk. About
5 P. M. he was helped up again & after sitting about
half an hour desired to be undressed & put in bed;
which was done.

During his whole illness he spoke but seldom, and
with great difficulty; and in so low & broken a voice
as at times hardly to be understood. His patience,
fortitude, & resignation never forsook him for a mo-
ment. In all his distress he uttered not a sigh, nor a

136 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

complaint; always endeavouring (from a sense of
duty as it appeared) to take what was offered him, and
to do as he was desired by the Physicians.

At the time of his decease Dr. Craik and myself were
in the situation before mentioned; Mrs. Washington
was sitting near the foot of the bed. Christopher was
standing by the bedside. Caroline Molly & Charlotte
were in the room standing near the door. Mrs.
Forbes the House keeper, was frequently in the room
during the day and evening.

As soon as Dr. Craik could speak after the distress-
ing scene was closed, he desired one of the servants to
ask the Gentln. below to come upstairs. When they
came to the bedside; I kissed the cold hand which I
had held to my bosom; laid it down, & went to the
other end of the room ; where I was for some time lost
in profound grief; until aroused by Christopher de-
siring me to take care of the General's keys and other
things which were taken out of his pockets ; and which
Mrs. Washington directed him to give to me: I
wrapped them in the General's handkerchief, & took
them with me to my room.

About 12 o'clk the Corpse was brought down stairs,
and laid out in the large room.

Sunday Deer. isth. 1800.

The above statement so far as I can recollect is
correct.

JAS. CRAIK.

Sunday Deer. isth. 1799.

Fair Weather.

Mrs. Washington sent for me in the Morning and de-
sired I would send up to Alxa. and have a Coffin made :

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 137

which I did. Doctor Dick measured the body, the
dimensions of which were as follows

In length 6 feet 3$ inchs. exact.
Across the shoulders i " 9 "

Across the elbows 2 " "

After breakfast I gave Dr. Dick & Dr. Brown forty
dollars each, which sum Dr. Craik advised as very
proper; and they left us after breakfast.

I wrote letters to the following persons informing
them of the late melancholy event.

The President of the United States
General Hamilton
Genl. Pinckney
Bushrod Washington
Col. W. A. Washington
Lawrence Lewis
G. W. P. Custis
Geo. S. Washington
Saml. Washington
Colo. Ball

Capt. Hammond — also to

John Lewis, desiring him to inform his Brothers,
George, Robert & Howells.

The letters were sent by the following conveyances —

To the President, Genl. Hamilton, & John Lewis by
the Mail.

To Col. W. A. Washington, to & Bushrod Washing-
ton by express to Colo. Blackburn, requesting him to
forward them by the same conveyance.

To L. Lewis, & G. W. P. Custis by express. To Gen-
eral Pinckney, Col. Ball, Saml. Washington, G. S.
Washington, & Capt. Hammond, by my own servant
Charles, with my riding horse.

i38 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Mrs. Stuart was sent for in the Morning. About 10
o'clk, Mr. Thos. Peter came down; and about two,
Mr. and Mrs. Law to whom I had written on Saturday
Eveng. Dr. Thornton came down with Mr. Law. Dr.
Craik tarried all day & all night.

In the evening I consulted with Mr. Law, Mr. Peter
& Dr. Craik on fixing a day for depositing the Body in
the Vault. I wished the ceremony to be postponed
until the last of the week, to give time to some of the
General's relations to be here: But Dr. Craik & Dr.
Thornton gave it decidedly as their opinion, that con-
sidering the disorder of which the General died, being
of an inflamatory nature, it would not be proper,
nor perhaps safe, to keep the body so long ; and there-
fore Wednesday was fixed upon for the funeral, to
allow a day (Thursday) in case the weather should be
unfavorable on Wednesday.

Monday, Deer. i6th. 1799.

I directed the people to open the family Vault, clean
away the rubbish from about it, and make everything
decent. Ordered a door to be made to the Vault, in-
stead of closing it again with brick, as had been the cus-
tom. Engaged Mr. Inglis and Mr. McMunn to have a
Mahogany Coffin made, lined with lead, in which the
body was to be deposited.

Dr. Craik, Mr. Peter, & Dr. Thornton left us after
breakfast. Mrs. Stuart & her daughters came in the
afternoon. Mr. Anderson went to Alxa. to get a num-
ber of things preparatory for the funeral. Mourng. was
ordered for the Family Domestics and Overseers.

Having received information from Alexa. that the
Militia, Freemasons &c. were determined to show their
respect to the General's Memory by attending his body
to the Grave, I directed provision to be prepared for a
large number of people, as some refreshment would be

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 139

expected by them. Mr. Robert Hamilton wrote me
a letter informing that a Schooner of his wd. be off
Mount Vernon to fire Minute guns when the body was
carrying to the grave. Gave notice of the time fixed
for the funeral to the following persons by Mrs. Wash-
ington's desire, viz — Mr. Mason & family — Mr. Peake
& family — Mr. Nickols & family — Mr. McCarty & fam-
ily— Miss McCarty — Mr. & Mrs. McClanahan — Lord
Fairfax & family — Mr. Triplet & family — Mr. Anderson
& family — Mr. Diggs, Mr. Cockburn & family — Mr.
Massey & family — Mr. R. West. I wrote also to the
Revd. Mr. Davis, to read the service.

Tuesday — Deer. i7th. 1799.

Every preparation for the mournful ceremony was
making. Mr. Diggs came here in the forenoon. Also
Mr. Stewart, Adjutant to the Alexa. Regimt. to view
the ground for the procession.

About one o'clock the Coffin was brought from Alexa.
in a stage. Mr. Ingle & Mr. McMunn accompanied it.
Also Mr. Grater with a shroud. The Body was laid
in the Coffin — at which time I cut off some of the hair.

The Mahogany Coffin was lined with lead, soddered
at the joints — and a cover of lead to be soddered on
after the body should be in the Vault. The whole was
put into a case lined & covered with black Cloth.

Wednesday Deer. i8th. 1799.

About eleven o'clk numbers of people began to as-
semble to attend the funeral, which was intended to
have been at twelve, but as a great part of the Troop
expected could not get down in time, it did not take
place till three.

Eleven pieces of Artillery were brot. from Alexa. and

I4o LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

a Schooner belonging to Mr. R. Hamilton came down
& lay off Mt. Vernon to fire Minute guns.

About 3 o'clock the procession began to move. The
arrangements of the procession were made by Colonels
Little, Simms & Deneale, and Dr. Dick. The Pall
holders were Colonels Little, Simms, Payne, Gilpin,
Ramsey and Marsteler. Coll. Blackburn preceded
the Corpse. Coll. Deneale marched with the Military.
The procession moved out of the Gate at the left Wing
of the House, and proceeded round in front of the lawn,
& down to the Vault on the right wing of the House.
The Procession as follows

The Troops, Horse & foot
Music playing a solemn Dirge
The Clergy— viz. The Revd.
Mr. Davis
Mr. Mini-
Mr. Moffatt
& Mr. Addison

The General's horse, with his saddle, Holster,
Pistols &c. led by his two grooms, Cyrus & Wilson in
black.

The Body borne by the Free Masons & Officers.
Principal Mourners — viz

Mrs. Stuart, & Mrs. Law

Misses Nancy & Sally Stuart

Miss Fairfax & Miss Dennison

Mr. Law, & Mr. Peter

Mr. Lear & Dr. Craik.

Lord Fairfax & Ferdd. Fairfax.
Lodge No. 23.

Corporation of Alexandria.
All other persons preceded by
Mr. Anderson & the Overseers.
When the Body arrived at the Vault the Revd. Mr.

•o

fc -3

O <u

gs

8 §

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 141

Davis read the service & pronounced a short extempore
speech.

The Masons performed their ceremonies, & the Body
was deposited in the Vault. ! ! ! !

After the Ceremony the Company returned to the
house where they took some refreshment, & retired
in good order. The remains of the provisions were
distributed among the blacks.

Mr. Peter, Dr. Craik & Dr. Thornton tarried here all
night.

When the Ceremony was over I retired to my room
(leaving to Mr. Law & Mr. Diggs the care of the Com-
pany) to give a loose to those feelings which I had been
able to keep under control, while I found it necessary
for me to give a personal attention to the preparations
for interring the body of my deceased friend.

What those feelings were is not to be told, if it were
even possible to describe!

Monday Deer. 23d. 1799.
Employed as yesterday.

Tuesday Deer. 24th. 1799.

Spent the day in looking over & arranging papers in
the General's Study.

Wednesday Deer. 25th. 1799.

I this day sent to Alexa. for the Plumber to come
down & close the leaden Coffin containing the General's
Body, as Judge Washington had arrived, and did not
incline to see the remains. The Plumbers came. I
went with them to the Tomb — I took a last look — a
last farewell of that face, which still appeared unal-
tered. I attended the Closing of the Coffin — and be-
held for the last time that face wh. shall be seen no
more here ; but wh- 1 hope to meet in Heaven.

MISCELLANEOUS LETTERS REVEALING

THE GREAT STATESMAN'S MODE OF

LIFE AT MT. VERNON

PHILADELPHIA, June 3oth., 1792.
Sir,

I little expected that I should have had occasion, at
this time (after the pointed assurances you gave me
more than three years ago, of discharging what was
due to me, fully) to remind you that I have received
only Three hundred and eighty pds. of the balance;
and to ask what I am to expect from you in the future.-

I delayed from day to day while you were in this
City (until it was too late) to apply to you on this sub-
ject, in hope, of an expectation that you would not
have left town without mentioning it yourself.

Before I apply to the Executors of Colonels Tayloe &
Thornton who were securities for the money loaned to
your deceased father, John Mercer Esqr. I will await
the receipt of your answer to the letter which I hope
will be given as soon as you can make it convenient. —

It has been of little avail hitherto, to inform you of
the causes of my want of this money, although in more
instances than one, I have done it with the utmost
truth and candour; should I say anything further to
you on this head now, were I not in a manner compelled
to declare that from an occurrence which did not exist
before have a call upon me, for a considerable sum, in a
few months; against which it is indispensably neces-
sary that I should be provided. —
I am — Sir

Your Most Obedt. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.

To JOHN FRANCIS MERCER.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 143

PHILADELPHIA, Augt. 26th, 1793.
Sir,

I intended to' have written to you somewhat sooner,
but business of a public nature and pressing, prevented
it until now. —

Although I have conviction in my own mind, that a
hundred guineas pr. annum is more than my Mount
Vernon Estate will enable me to give the Superintend-
ent of it ; yet, the satisfaction (when one is at a consider-
able distance from property they possess, under circum-
stances which does not allow much thought thereon)
of having a person in whom confidence can be placed
as a manager, is such, as to dispose me to allow you that
sum; provided other matters can be adjusted to the
mutual convenience, and satisfaction of both parties.

As you were about to depart in the Stage when I saw
you (and which I knew could not wait) I did not go so
much into detail as was necessary to place an agreement
upon a basis to avoid mis-conception, and unpleasant
disputes thereafter; and besides altho' you would be
upon standing wages, which in the opinion of some
would make it immaterial (these being paid) what sort
of an estate you overlooked ; yet my opinion of a sensi-
ble and a discreet man is, that before he would finally
engage he would view the estate himself, and decide
from that view, whether it possessed such advantages
as would enable him to acquire honour as well as profit
from the management thereof; — whether he could
make it profitable to his Employer from its local situa-
tion;— the plans proposed; or the condition in which
it might appear to him. Whether the part of the
Country, the accomodations, the water, &ct. were to
his liking ; — with other considerations which will admit
no evidence equal to that of one's own observation, to
decide ultimately on what to resolve. —

Having stated a fact, and given my ideas of what I

144 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

suppose would be most agreeable for you to do, I shall
add, that if nothing more than I foresee at present
should happen, I expect to be at Mount Vernon about
the 2oth. of next month, for a stay of 8 or 10 days. — If
then you are disposed to undertake my business, and
wish to see the nature of it, and the present state of it ;
I should be glad to see you there about that time, when
every necessary arrangement may be made if we should
finally agree.

From Baltimore to Mount Vernon by the way of the
Federal City, George Town, and Alexandria, is 59
measured Miles: — and from Annapolis to the same
place, crossing Potomac at Alexandria, is 45 Miles;
but it might be reduced to less than 40 if there was a
ferry opposite to my house. — From Baltimore to Alex-
andria (through the above places) the regular Stages
pass; and set out every Monday, Wednesday, and
Friday from the former, reaching the latter the same
day; from whence a horse could be hired without
difficulty, I believe, to carry you to my house, distant
9 miles. I mention these things for your information,
in case you should determine to go there.

If you resolve to meet me at Mount Vernon, give me
notice thereof immediately; and if business or any
other cause should render it impracticable for me to be
there, at the time, I will inform you, soas to prevent
your setting out. —

I informed you at our meeting, that I had eight or
ten Negro Carpenters under the care of a worthless
White man, whom I had forborn to turn away on ac-
count of the peculiar circumstances attending his
family. — But I suffer so much from his negligence ; —
By his bad qualities ; — and bad examples ; that I find
it indispensably necessary to get some other workman
to supply his place. — If it should be your lot to superin-
tend my affairs, your own ease, as well as my interest,

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 145

would induce you to look out for a successor to him,
against New Years day ; — if not, and you could recom-
mend a proper character for this business, it would be
rendering me an acceptable service to do it. I am Sir —
Your Hble. Servt.

Go. WASHINGTON.
MR. WILLIAM PEARCE.

MOUNT VERNON, Octr. 6th. 1793
Mr. Pearce,

Enclosed is a copy of our agreement with my signa-
ture to it. —

Since you were here, Mrs. Washington the Widow of
my Nephew, who formerly lived at this place, has re-
solved as soon as we leave it, to remove to her Brother's
in the lower part of this State, and will not, I believe,
return to reside at it again. — This will make it more
convenient and agreeable, both for yourself and me,
that you should live the Winter, at least, at my Mansion
house ; as it will allow more time for my carpenters to
provide for Mr. Crow, and to put the place he lives at in
better repair than it now is for yourself, if there should
be occasion for you to go there ; — and this too, under your
own inspection. —

The right wing to my dwelling house as you possibly
may have noticed, and heard called the Hall (being
kept altogether for the use of Strangers) has two good
rooms below (with tiled floors) and as many above,
all with fire places. — This will accomodate your family
(being a larger house) better than Crow's ; and by being
here, you will have the use of my Kitchen, the Cook
belonging thereto, Frank the House Servant, a boy also
in the House. — The Stable, Garden, &ct., &ct., without
any additional expense to me — at the same time that
it will, by placing you in the centre of the business,
ease you of much trouble ; for otherwise, the frequent

146 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

calls for Tools, Nails, Iron, &ct., from the Store — and
the particular attention which matters abt. the Mansion
house will require, would have occasioned you many
an inconvenient ride here, the necessity for which will
be entirely superceded, as your mornings and evenings
will, of course, be spent where your presence will be
most wanting. —

As I am never sparing (with proper aeconomy) in
furnishing my Farms with any, and every kind of Tool
and Implement that is calculated to do good and neat
work, I not only authorize you to bring the kind of
ploughs you were speaking to me about, but any
others, the utility of which you have proved from your
own experience. — particularly a kind of hand rake
which Mr. Stuart tells me are used on the Eastern Shore
of Maryland in lieu of Hoes for Corn at a certain state
of its growth — and a Scythe and Cradle different from
those used with us, and with which the grain is laid
much better. — In short I shall begrudge no reasonable
expense that will contribute to the improvement and
neatness of my Farms ; — for nothing pleases me better
than to see them in good order, and everything trim,
handsome, and thriving about them; — nor nothing
hurts me more than to find them otherwise, and the
tools and implements laying wherever they were last
used, exposed to injuries from Rain, sun, &ct. —

I hope you will endeavor to arrange your own con-
cerns in such a manner as to be here as much before the
time agreed on as you conveniently can. — Great ad-
vantages to me will result from this, by putting the
business in a good train before the Fall operations are
closed by the frosts of Winter, and all improvements
are thereby at an end for that season. On the other
hand, inconveniences to yourself may arise from delay
on account of the Weather — Navigation, &ct ; there
having been instances of this River's closing with Ice

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 147

several days before Christmas which might prevent the
removal of yr things in time. — That your living at the
Mansion may be attended with no more expence to you
than if you had gone to the other place (at which Crow
now lives) on account of Gentlemen, who now and
then call here out of curiosity — as they are passing
through the Country — I shall lay in such things as
will be necessary for this purpose, and the occasions
(which are but rare) may require. —

I expect to leave this place about the 28th. of the
Month for Philadelphia, or the neighborhood of it ; any
letter therefore which shall arrive before that time will
find me here — afterwards it will go to Philadelphia
where it had better be directed.

I am your friend and Servant

Go. WASHINGTON.
MR. WILLIAM PEARCE.

MOUNT VERNON 27th. Oct. 1793
Mr. Pearce,

Your letter of the iQth came duly to hand. — To-
morrow I leave this for Philadelpa or the vicinity of
it ; where, when you have occasion to write to me, di-
rect your letters. —

As you seemed to be in doubt whether a proper
character could be engaged in ye part of the Country
you live in, to look after my Negro Carpenters; and
(having much work to do in their way, and not being
willing to leave matters at an uncertainty ) I have en-
gaged the person who superintends them at present
to look after them another year. — He is a good work-
man himself, and can be active ; but has little authority
(I ought to have said command, for I have given him
full authority) over those who are entrusted to him —
and he is fond of drink, tho' somewhat reformed in
this respect, I place no great confidence in him. — He

i48 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

has, however, promised so to conduct himself, as that
there shall be no cause for complaint — I thought it
was better, therefore, to engage him, than to run any
hazard. — I have engaged no person to look after the
house People, Ditchers &ct in place of the one now
occupied in that business ; and unless a very active and
spirited man could be had, it will scarcely be essential
while you reside at the Mansion house yourself. — The
old Man that is employed in this business is, I believe,
honest, sober, well meaning, and in some things know-
ing; but he wants activity and spirit; — and from not
being accustomed to Negros, in addition thereto ; they
are under no sort of awe of him — of course do as they
please. — His wages are low, Twenty pounds pr ann.
only — under this statement of the case you may do as
shall seem best to yourself. — If he is to go, he ought to
know it seasonably: — his time is up at Christmas;
and nothing betwn us has past either as to his going,
or staying.

I shall, before you remove, or by the time you may
arrive at Mount Vernon, give you full directions, and
my ideas upon the several points which may, between
this and then, occur to me. — In all things else you
must pursue your own judgment — having the great
outlines of my business laid before you.

After having lived the ensuing Winter at the Mansion
house you will be better able to decide than at the
present moment, how far your convenience, my interest,
and indeed circumstances, may render your removal to
the other place more eligable. — I shall readily agree to
either. — Materials are now providing for building a
house for Mr. Crow ; whose house it was first proposed
you should live in, for him to remove to. — There are a
great number of Negro children at the Quarters be-
longing to the house people ; but they haveAlways been
forbid (except two or 3 young ones belonging to the

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 149

Cook, and the Mulatto fellow Frank in the house, her
husband ; both of whom live in the Kitchen) from
coming within the Gates of the Inclosures of the Yards,
Gardens &ct; that they may not be breaking the
Shrubs, and doing other mischief; but I believe that
they are often there notwithstanding: — but if they
could be broke of the practice it would be very agree-
able to me, as they have no business within; having
their wood, Water, &ct at their own doors without. —

The season has been remarkably sickly, generally,
but my [family, except a few slight touches of the
intermittant fever — chiefly among the blacks — have
shared less of it, than I find from report, has been felt
in most other places. —

I am Your friend &ct

Go. WASHINGTON.
MR. WILLIAM PEARCE

GERMAN TOWN, 24t Novr. 1793
Mr. Pearce,

On my way to this place (about the last of Octr.)
I lodged a letter for you in the Post Office at Baltimore,
which I hope got safe to your hands, although I have
not heard from you since.

I shall begin, now, to throw upon Paper such general
thoughts, and directions, as may be necessary for
your government when you get to Mount Vernon ; and
for fear of accidents, if transmitted to you thro' any
other channel, will deposit them in the hands of my
Nephew, Mr. Howell Lewis, who will remain (though
inconvenient to me) at that place until your arrival
there; that he may put you in possession, and give
you such information into matters as may be useful. —

As my farms stand much in need of manure, and
it is difficult to raise a sufficiency of it on them; and
the Land besides requires something to loosen and

iSo LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

ameliorate it, I mean to go largely (as you will perceive
by what I shall hand to you through Mr. Lewis) upon
Buck Wheat as a Green manure (Plowed in, when full
in blossom) — for this purpose I have requested a
Gentleman of my acquaintance, in the County of
Loudoun, about Mount Vernon, to send to my place
in time 450, or 500 bushels of this article for seed. —
And as I do not wish to go largely upon Corn, it is
necessary I should sow a good many Oats; — my
calculation (allowing two bushels to the Acre) is about
400 bushels wanting. — Not more than the half of
which can I calculate I have of my own, for Seed next
Spring, and therefore if you could carry round with
you two hundred, or even 300 bushels to be certain;
of those which are good in quality, and free from
Onions, I will readily pay for them and the accustomed
freight. — That I may know whether to depend upon
yr doing this, or not, write me word; that in case of
failure with you, I may try to obtain them through
some other channel. —

I am your Friend and Servant

Go. WASHINGTON.
MR. WILLIAM PEARCE

PHILADELPHIA i8t Decemr 1793.
Mr. Pearce,

The paper enclosed with this letter will give you my
ideas, generally, of the course of Crops I wish to pursue.
— I am sensible more might be made from the farms
for a year or two — but my object is to recover the
fields from the exhausted state into which they have
fallen, by oppressive crops, and to restore them (if
possible by any means in my power) to health and
vigour. — But two ways will enable me to accomplish
this. — The first is to cover them with as much manure
as possible (winter and summer) . — The 26. a judicious
succession of Crops.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 151

Manure can not be had in the abundance the fields
require; for this reason, and to open the land which
is hard bound by frequent cultivation and want of
proper dressings, I have introduced Buck Wheat in
the plentiful manner you will perceive by the Table,
both as a manure, and as a substitute for Indian Corn
for horses &ct ; it being a great ameliorator of the soil.
— How far the insufferable conduct of my Overseers,
or the difficulty of getting Buck Wheat and Oats for
seed, will enable me to carry my plan into effect, I am
unable at this moment to decide. — You possibly, will
be better able to inform me sometime hence.— Colo.
Ball of Leesburgh has promised to use his endeavours
to procure and send the first to Mount Vernon; but
where to get as much of the latter as will answer
my purposes (unless I send them from this city) I
know not; but before I can decide on the quantity
it may be necessary for me to purchase, it is essential
I should know the quantity grown on my own estate ;
and which after I went to Virginia in September last
I directed should no longer be fed away. — The common
Oats which are brought from the Eastern Shore to
Alexandria for sale, I would not sow — first, because
they are not of a good quality — and 2dly because
they are rarely, if ever, free from Garlick and wild
Onions: with which, unfortunately, many of my
fields are already but too plentifully stocked from
the source already mentioned; and that too before I
was aware of the evil.

I have already said that the insufferable conduct
of my Overseers may be one mean of frustrating my
plan for the next year. — I will now explain myself. —
You will readily perceive by the rotation of Crops I
have adopted, that a great deal of Fall plowing is
indispensable. — Of this I informed every one of them,
and pointed out the fields which were to be plowed at

152 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

this season* — So anxious was I, that this work should
be set about early, that I made an attempt soon after
you were at Mount Vernon in September, to begin it ;
and at several times afterwards repeated the operation
in different fields at Dogue-run farm ; — but the ground
being excessively hard and dry, I found that to per-
severe would only destroy my horses without effecting
the object in the manner it ought to be, and therefore
I quit it; but left positive directions that it should
recommence at every farm as soon as ever there should
come rain to moysten the earth — and to stick con-
stantly at it, except when the horses were employed
in treading out Wheat (which was a work I also
desired might be accomplished as soon as possible). —
Instead of doing either of these, as I ordered, I find
by the reports, that McKoy has, now and then, plowed
a few days only as if it were for amusement. — That
Stuart has but just begun to do it. — And that neither
Crow nor Davy ad Muddy-hole had put a plow into
the ground so late as the yth. of this month. — Can it
be expected then, that frosts, Snow and Rain will
permit me to do much of this kind of work before
March or April? When Corn planting, Oats sowing,
and Buck Wht for manure, ought to be going into the
grd, in a well prepared state, instead of having it to
flush up at that season — and when a good deal of
Wheat is to be got out with the same horses. — Crow
having got out none of his that was stacked in the
field, nor Stuart and McKoy much of theirs, which
is in the same predicament; — the excuse being, as
far as it is communicated to me, that their whole
time and force since the month of October has been
employed in securing their Corn — When God knows
how little enough of that article will be made.

I am the more particular on this head for two reasons
— first to let you see how little dependence there is

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 153

on such men when left to themselves (for under Mr.
Lewis it was very little better) — and 2dly to show
you the necessity of keeping these Overseers strictly
to their duty — that is — to keep them from running
about, and to oblige them to remain constantly with
their people ; — and moreover, to see at what time they
turn out of a morning — for I have strong suspicions
that this, with some of them, is at a late hour, the
consequence of which to the Negroes is not difficult
to foretell. — All these Overseers as you will perceive
by their agreements, which I herewith send, are on
standing wages ; and this with men who are not actu-
ated by the principles of honor or honesty, and not
very regardful of their characters, leads naturally
to endulgences — as their profits, whatever may be
mine, are the same whether they are at a horse race
or on the farm — whether they are entertaining company
(which I believe is too much the case) in their own
houses, or are in the field with the Negroes.

Having given you these ideas, I shall now add, that
if you find any one of them inattentive to the duties
which by the articles of agreement they are bound to
perform, or such others as may be reasonably en-
joined,— Admonish them in a calm, but firm manner
of the consequences. — If this proves ineffectual,
discharge them, at any season of the year without
scruple or hesitation, and do not pay them a copper ; —
putting the non-compliance with their agreemt in
bar.

To treat them civilly is no more than what all men
are entitled to, but, my advice to you is, to keep them
at a proper distance; for they will grow upon famil-
iarity, in proportion as you will sink in authority,
if you do not. — Pass by no faults or neglects (especially
at first) for overlooking one only serves to generate
another, and it is more than probable that some of

i54 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

them (one in particular) will try, at first, what lengths
he may go. — A steady and firm conduct, with an
inquisitive inspection into, and a proper arrangement
of everything on your part, will though it may give,
trouble at first, save a great deal in the end — and you
may rest assured that in everything that is just, and
proper to be done ib your part, (you) shall meet with
the fullest support ib mine. — Nothing will contribute
more to effect these desirable purposes than a good
example — unhappily this was not set (from what I
have learnt lately) by Mr. Whiting, who, it is said,
drank freely — kept bad company in my house in
Alexandria — and was a very debauched person —
wherever this is the case it is not easy for a man to
throw the first stone for fear of having it returned to
him; — and this I take to be the true cause why Mr.
Whiting did not look more scrupulously into the
conduct of the Overseers, and more minutely into the
smaller matters belonging to the Farms — which,
though individually (they) may be trifling, are not
found so in the agregate ; for there is [no addage more
true than an old Scotch one, that "many mickles
make a muckle. "

I have had but little opportunity of forming a
correct opinion of my white Overseers, but such
observations as I have made I will give.

Stuart appears to me to understand the business
of a farm very well, and seems attentive to it. — He is
I believe a sober man, and according to his own ac-
count a very honest one. — As I never found him (at
the hours I usually visited the farm) absent from
some part or another of his people, I presume he is
industrious and seldom from home. — He is talkative,
has a high opinion of his own skill and management —
and seems to live in peace and harmony with the
Negros who are confided to his care. — He speaks

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 155

extremely well of them, and I have never heard
any complaint of him. — His work however, has been
behind hand all the year, owing he says, and as I
believe, to his having too much plowing to do — and
the last omission, of not plowing when he knew my
motives for wishing it, has been extremely repren-
sible. — But upon the whole, if he stirs early, and works
late, I have no other fault to find than the one I have
just mentioned — His talkativeness and vanity may
be humoured.

Crow is an active man, and not deficient in judgment.
— If kept strictly to his duty would, in many respects,
make a good Overseer. — But I am much mistaken in
his character, if he is not fond of visiting, and receiving
visits. — This, of course, withdraws his attention from
his business, and leaves his people too much to them-
selves ; which produces idleness, or slight work on one
side, and flogging on the other — the last of which be-
sides the dissatisfaction which it creates, has, in one
or two instances been productive of serious conse-
quences— I am not clear either, that he gives due
attention to his Plow horses and other stock which
is necessary, although he is very fond of riding the
former — not only to Alexandria &ct but about the
farm, which I did not forbid as his house was very
inconvenient to the scene of his business.

McKoy appears to me to be a sickly, slothful and
stupid fellow. — He had many more hands than were
necessary merely for his Crop, and though not 70 acres
of Corn to cultivate, did nothing else. — In short to
level a little dirt that was taken out of the meadow
ditch below his house seems to have composed the
principal part of his Fall work; altho' no finer season
could have happened for preparing the second lot of
the Mill swamp for the purpose of laying it to grass. —
If more exertion does not appear in him when he gets

i56 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

into better health he will be found an unfit person to
overlook so important a farm, especially as I have my
doubts also of his care and attention to the horses &ct.

As to Butler, you will soon be a judge whether he
will be of use to you or not. — He may mean well, and
for ought I know to the contrary may, in some things
have judgment; but I am persuaded he has no more
authority over the Negros he is placed, than an old
woman would have; and is as unable to get a proper
day's Work done by them as she would, unless led to
it by their own inclination wch I know is not the case.

Davy at Muddy-hole carries on his business as well
as the White Overseers, and with more quietness
than any of them. — With proper directions he will do
very well ; and probably give you less trouble than any
of them, except in attending to his care of the stock, of
which I fear he is negligent; as there are deaths too
frequent among them. —

Thomas Green (Overlooker of the Carpenters) will,
I am persuaded, require your closest attention, without
which I believe it will be impossible to get any work
done by my Negro Carpenters — in the first place, be-
cause, it has not been in my power, when I am away
from home, to keep either him, or them in any settled
work ; but they will be flying from one trifling thing to
another, with no other design, I believe, than to have
the better oportunity to be idle, or to be employed on
their own business — and in the next place, because, —
although authority is given to him — he is too much
upon a level with the Negros to exert it; from which
cause, if no other every one works, or not, as they please
and carve out such jobs as they like. — I had no
doubt when I left home the 2 8th of Oct. but that
the house intended for Crow wd have been nearly
finished by this time, as in order to facilitate the ex-
ecution I bought Scantling, Plank and Singles for

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 157

the building: instead of this I do not perceive by his
weekly report that a tool has yet been employed in it
— nor can I find out by the said report that the barn
at Dogue-run is in much greater forwardness than when
I left it.

To correct the abuses which have crept into all parts
of my business — to arrange it properly, and to reduce
things to system; will require, I am sensible, a good
deal of time and your utmost exertions; — of the last,
from the character you bear, I entertain no doubt;
the other, I am willing to allow, because I had rather
you should probe things to the bottom, whatever time
it may require to do it, than to decide hastily upon the
first view of them; as to establish good rules, and a
regular system, is the life, and the soul of every kind
of business.

These (rest of letter missing).
MR. WILLIAM PEARCE.

PHILADELPHIA, Jany. 29th., 1794.
Dear Sir,

The enclosed came to my hands a few days ago — the
means are also enclosed to discharge Colo. Simm's ac-
count, and to receive his requittal. — I would thank you
to get from and forward to me, Mr. Lee's charge also ;
that my Administration of the Estate of Colo. Colvill
may be finally closed, and the balance deposited some-
where for the benefit of the residuary legatees. —

That I may be better able to decide upon the latter
point, I would thank you for an extract of that part of
Colo. Thorns. Colvill's Will (or the Will itself, as I pre-
sume it is no longer of any use to you) which makes
this devise ; and for all the claims, proofs, &ca. which
have been handed to his Executors in consequence
thereof, and which were deposited (to the best of my

i58 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

»

recollection) with you, along with the other papers. —
I am Dear Sir

Your Obedt. Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.

P. S. Are there not some parts of Colo. Simm's charge
which ought to be paid, or at least repaid by the de-
fendants ?
To JAMES KEITH.

PHILADELPHIA, Feby. 3d., 1794.
Dear Sir,

In due course of the Post I have received your letters
of the 1 7th of December and 2ist of the last month;
and congratulate you on the birth of a son and the
passage of your family through the Small Pox.

As you had acknowledged the receipt of the needful
for purchasing the Buck Wt, and had assured me that
no disappointment should follow, I have not given you
the trouble of a lettter until now, since I wrote from
German Town ; — and now, principally to beg that the
Buck Wheat be down in time for early sowing ; the
present frost being favorable for transportation.

I have procured for you, and it shall be sent with my
own by the first vessel to Alexandria, three bushels of
Clover seed which appears to be clean, and warranted
fresh. It will cost delivered at Alexandria about eight
dollars a bushel. It shall be directed to the care of
Col. Gilpin to whom my own things will be consigned ;
as the Capt. is not at liberty to send any part of his
cargo before he arrives at the port to which he is bound.
No opportunity has offered since the first frost (in
December) set in, or both yours and mine would have
gone e'er this. To say now where they will go is more
than I am able as the Delaware is close, and navigation
at an end until there comes a thaw.

With this letter is enclosed a box containing brace-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 159

lets etc. for Mrs. Ball wch I hope will get safe to and,
as I have directed them to the particular care of the
Postmaster in Alexandria — Mrs. Washington and the
family join me in every good wish for you, Mrs. Ball
and Miss Milly, if with you, and with affectionate re-
gard

I am, Sir

Your obedient Servt.

Go. WASHINGTON.

As soon as you have ascertained the amount of cost
and charges of the Buck Wheat delivered at Mt. Vern.
let me know it and I will remit what may be due on the
acct. — The freight of the Clover seed from hence to
Alexandria as well as the first cost of it will be paid
here.

G. W.
To COL. BURGESS BALL.

PHILADELPHIA, March ioth., 1794.
Sir,

In due course of Post I was favoured with your letter
of the 2 5th of Jany, with the deed which it enclosed from
Colo. Mercer & others, to me. — This deed refers to a
Survey of the Manor of Woodstock (in the year 1782)
and to a division thereof made by Hezekiah Veatch,
assistant Surveyor of Montgomery County, on the 2d.
day of January 1793. —

The latter (is the body of the deed) is said to be re-
corded.— It is essentially necessary indeed that it
should be so. — But neither the original, nor a copy
thereof was forwarded to me. — This induces me to give
you the trouble of informing me whether the above
Survey of Mr. Veatch is admitted to record, — and, in
that case, that you would be so good as to furnish me

160 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

with either the original, or an attested copy thereof
from Your Office. —

I am — Sir

Your Obedt. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.

To JOHN GWINN.

PHILADELPHIA, Mar. loth, 1794.
Dear Sir,

To the best of my recollection when you paid me for
my flour of last year you asked the refusal of it this
year.

By the report from my men I perceive about 3,000
bushels of wheat has been manufactured; but how
much flour it has made and of what sort, I am yet to
learn. If you incline to purchase what there is, let
me know the best price you will give ; or to make the
matter short, and to save time, you may have the
Superfine (if any is made) and fine flour at what they
sell for in this market with a deduction of the usual
freight per barrel from Alexandria to the place. (*)
Your answer, as soon as it is convenient to you,
and oblige

Dear Sir

Your Obedient Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.

P. S. I have more than what is meatd. above to grind.
To Robert T. Hose.

(*) The cost prices in this City are

Superfine 5o/

Common 47/6

Two or three months credit I should not object to.

PHILADELPHIA, loth. March, 1794.
Dear Sir,

Your favor of the ist. inst. with its enclosures, I have
duly received.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 161

I shall, by this day's Post, write to the representative
of Colo. Carlyle (agreeably to the suggestion in Mr.
Chalmers letter) to know if he (Mr. Herbert) can throw
any light upon the payment of ^100 which Mr.
Chalmers conceives he must have made on acct. of Mr.
Sidney George's Bond. — When I receive the answer it
shall be forwarded to you. — Till then the draught on
Mr. Chalmers may be suspended. —

I have no other object in this business than to bring
everything which relates to it to a speedy & equitable
close as far as it respects the parties interested and to a
justifiable one as it concerns myself. — On these princi-
pals I should hope Mr. George would not require (having
an attested copy of it) the original bond in the possession
of Mr. Chalmers especially as the receipt for the money
might recite a statement of the fact, for his indemni-
fication.—

It is of moment, however, to me, to have it ascer-
tained whether the sum of £100 reed, by Mr. Chalmers-
& the sum due from Mr. George for the payment of £90
ought not to be discharged with interest. — The Ad-
ministration accts. which have been settled will show
that interest has been paid by the estate of Colo.
Collins (Miss Anderson is an instance of it) and judg-
ments in behalf of the estate have been obtained, in
Virginia, with interest. — To act safely is all I aim at,
for I neither gain nor lose by the transaction. —

I am — Dear Sir
Your Most Obedt. & Very Hble. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
To WILLIAM TILGHMAN.

PHILA., March 23d, 1794.
Dear Sir,

By a letter I have just received from my Manager
Mr. Pearce dated the i8th inst. I find he had received

162 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

no more at that time, than 131 bushls. of the Buck
Wheat you were to procure for me. — I hope there will
be no disappointment of the remainder. — It would fall
hard upon me, as I have not the quantity of seed oats
necessary to carry my plan into effect this year; a
failure of both would leave my grounds unoccupied. —
My love in which Mrs. Washington & the family unite
is tendered to Mrs. Ball and yours.—
I am — Dear Sir

Your Affecte.

Go. WASHINGTON.
To COLO. BURGESS BALL.

PHILADELPHIA, April 6th 1794.
Mr. Pearce,

Your letter and Reports of the ist. instant I have
received, and am glad to find by the first that you have
got your family safe to Mount Vernon ; as, unquestion-
ably, it will be a satisfaction to you to have them along
with you. — Change of air may, and I hope will, restore
your eldest daughter to health again.

I had no doubt but that the late capture of our
Vessels by the British Cruisers, followed by the Em-
bargo which has been laid on the Shipping in our
Ports, wd naturally occasion a temporary fall in the
article of provisions; — yet, as there are the same mouths
to feed as before; — as the demand, consequently, will be
as great ; — and as the Crops in other parts of the world
will not be increased by these means, I have no doubt
at all, but that, as soon as the present impediments are
removed the prices of flour will rise to what it has been
(at least) for which reason hold mine up to the prices
mentioned in my last ; and if they are offered, make a
provisory agreement, to be ratified, or not, by me ;—
an answer to which can be obtained in a week. — With
respect to the Wheat on hand, you must (if you hear
nothing to the contrary from me) be governed by cir-

QUILT MADE BY MRS. WASHINGTON AND GIVEN BY HER
TO MRS. LEAR

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 163

cumstances and your own judgment, in getting it out
of the straw; — but, at any rate, remove it into the
Barns for the purpose of threshing in weather when
the people cannot work out. —

When salt, or any other article of which you are in
want, gets to a high price, provide for the present oc-
casion only unless there is a moral certainty of their
rising still higher; in that case prudence would direct
otherwise. —

It was not my expectation that either grass or grain
could be rolled at the expence of stopping the Ploughs ;
consequently, if the Oxen were not in a condition for
the accomplishment of this work the execution of it
was not to be expected: — but is not this an instance
among a variety of others, of the impolicy of not
breaking a great number of Steers at each of the
Farms ? which would prevent the few that are broke from
being reduced too low for the services thereof. —
Twenty Oxen are not more expensive than ten broke,
and ten unbroke Steers, because you feed them as Oxen
only when they are worked ; and unbroke Steers must be
fed, as well as Oxen (though not in the same manner)
at other times. — By this means there never would be a
want of draught Cattle for Cart, Harrow or Roller. —

How does the young grass which was sown in the
new meadows last fall, and the Clover come on? — Was
the latter injured much by the Winter?

Besides the number of Stacks which are yet in
Wheat, I wanted to know what those stacks are sup-
posed to contain; — and this the Overseers, by com-
paring the size of them with those which have been
tread out, may certainly give a pretty near guess at. —

The three bushels and half of Oats, mentioned to
you in my last, are not of such superior quality as I
had been led to expect from the account given of them ;
— yet, notwithstanding, ground may be kept some-

1 64 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

time longer for them, or until you hear further from
me, on this head. —

The imposition with respect to the Garden seeds, is
very unjustifiable; — 'tis infinately worse than simple
robbery, for there you loose your money only, but
when it is given for bad seed you lose your money,
your labour in preparing for the reception of them, —
and a whole season. —

Cloaths must be provided for the Young Gardener
at Alexandria. — Those for work to be stong, and
substantial. — Sunday, or Holliday Cloaths to be decent,
and such as may please without going to more expence
than is necessary: — but of the latter class I should
conceive he can be in no want now, unless he has made
an improper use of a whole suit (of very good Cloaths)
which were given to him the latter end of October
last. —

I am sorry to find that my chance for Lambs this
year, is so bad. — It does not appear to me by the Re-
ports that I shall have more than a third of what I
had last year : — what this can be ascribed to is beyond
my comprehension, unless it be for want of Rams, or
bad Rams. — Let therefore, at Shearing time, a selection
of the best formed, and otherwise promising ram
lambs be set apart (in sufficient numbers) to breed
from ; and when they are fit for it, cut the old ones and
turn them aside, to be disposed of. —

At Shearing time also, let there be a thorough culling
out, of all the old, and indifferent sheep from the flocks
that they may be disposed of, and thereby save me the
mortification of hearing every week of their death! —
which is the more vexatious as I was taught to believe
that every indifferent sheep was drawn for this pur-
pose last Spring, notwithstanding the loss of them
which has been sustained the past winter ; — and indeed
unto the present moment. —

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 165

When you next go to Alexandria take the exact
dimensions of the rooms in my house at that place,
that I may send paper for them. — Give the length and
breadth of each — and height from the wash board to
the Chair board (as they are commonly called) and
thence to the Cornish, if any, with the doors and win-
dows, and size of them, in each room or passage. — If
there is occasion to make good the plastering in any of
the rooms, no white wash must be put thereon; be-
cause it is improper for paper. — Thomas Davis must
paint the outsides of both houses there ; the lower part
of a stone colour, and the roofs red. — The Inside of the
dwelling house is also to be painted. — The whole in
short is to be put in very good, and decent condition.
— If the planking between the two houses is plained,
this also should be painted.

I am Your friend &ct

Go. WASHINGTON.
Mr. WILLIAM PEARCE

PHILADELPHIA, i3th Aprl., 1794.
Dear Sir,

I have been favored with your letter of the 4th inst.
and thank you for the information respecting the dep-
redations on my land, lying on four miles Run. — Mr.
Bushrod Washington a year or two ago was desired to
commence a suit or suits against some of the Tres-
passers but whether he did, or not, or what the result
was, I do not recollect ever to have heard. — The growth
of the land, is more valuable than the land itself, — to
protect it therefore is important.

Not knowing the Christian name of Mr. Minor, or
whether there may not be more than one of that name,
I am at a loss to direct to him; and indeed for a safe
mode of conveying a letter to him, and therefore take
the liberty of putting the enclosed under Cover to you,

166 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

with a request (after putting a wafer in it) that you
would be so good as to have it safely conveyed to the
right person.

The accounts which I receive from Mount Vernon,
respecting my Wheat, are very unfavorable. — They
could not, indeed, he otherwise, after the effect, oc-
casioned by drought in the fall had become apparent,
which was the case before I left home in the latter part
of October.

The appointment of a Marshall, for the District of
Georgia, had taken place before your letter came to my
hands : — but if the case had been otherwise Mr. McCrea,
however well known in Virginia was too new a settler,
and too little known in Georgia to have become an ac-
ceptable man for that office, when half the State (in a
manner) was in hot pursuit of it. & many of the
ancient inhabitants & respectable characters were
pressing forward by themselves, & friends, on this
occasion. —

My best wishes attend Mrs. Stuart and the rest of the
family, & with very great esteem & regard —
I am — Dear Sir

Your Affecte. Servant

Go. WASHINGTON.
To DAVID STUART Esqr.

PHILADELPHIA May 4th 1794
Mr. Pearce,

Your letter of the 2pth ulto, and the reports which
were enclosed, came duly to hand.

I am sorry to find by the first that the Ship Peggy
had not then arrived at George Town, from London. —
I fear the White thorn Plants (5,000 in number) which I
have on board, together with Mr. Lears fruit Trees,
will suffer very much, if they are not entirely destroyed ;
by the advanced season. — Let the ground (wherever

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 167

the first are to go) be prepared for their reception, that
no time which can he avoided, may be lost in getting
them into it; — as to the latter, that is the fruit trees,
there cannot be many of them, consequently no pre-
vious preparation is necessary, for their deposit. —

I wish you had discharged Green without any cere-
mony, when you found him drinking, and idling his
time away; — as to any reliance, on his promise to
amend, there can be no sort of dependance : — for it has
been found that he is growing worse and worse : The
consequence of which is, that he dare not find fault
with those who are intrusted to his care, lest they shd
retort, and disclose his rascally conduct; by which
means work that the same number of hands would
perform in a week, takes mine a month. — Nothing
but compasion for his helpless family, has hitherto
induced me to keep him a moment in my service (so
bad is the example he sets) ; but if he has no regard
for them himself, it is not to be expected that I am to
be a continual sufferer on this acct, for his misconduct.

I never could get an account of the Corn made on
my Estate last year, consequently can form no idea of
the quantity now on hand, nor of the prospect there
is of its carrying me through the year. — At any rate,
it should be used with great care, but if it is likely to
run short, as much parsimony should be observed as
can comport with the absolute calls for it, on the farms,
as I know not where to get more; and should find it
inconvenient to pay for it if I did.

Does the first sown Buck Wheat come up well? — as
fast as any field, or lot is planted with Potatoes, let
the quantity which has. been used therefor, be noted
in the Farm Report of the place where they have been
used. — To plant the Potatoes whole is the best, where
there is enough of them; when there is not, cutting
becomes necessary, and should then be adopted. —

1 68 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

In the Gardeners report is a query, if Apricots will
be wanting to preserve. — I answer No. — for the sit-
uation of public business now is, and likely to remain
such, that my family will not be able to spend any
time at Mount Vernon this Summer — that is — I can-
not do it, and Mrs. Washington would not chuse
to be there without me. — My present intention is, if
public business will perimt, to make a flying trip
there soon after the rising of Congress; but when
that will be is more than I am able to decide, at
present.

It is not usual — nor is there any occasion — for
Papering the ceiling of the Room, or rooms (if more
than one should be papered) in the House, in Alex-
andria.—

I am — Your friend &ct

Go. WASHINGTON.
MR. WILLIAM PEARCE

PHILADELPHIA, May gfh, 1794.
Sir,

Your letter of the i4th. ulto. and the first Vol. of an
American Biography, came safe to my hands. For
both I pray you to accept my thanks, — and to consider
me as a subscriber for the latter.

I wish is was in my power to afford you any aid in the
prosecution of so desirable a work. — But I do not see
wherein I can, — and if I did, my avocations are of such
a nature as to allow me no time to profit by the means. -
My good wishes therefore seem to be all that is left me,
on this occasion. — These, with great sincerity I offer
you, with assurances of being, Sir

Yr. Most Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To REVD. MR. JEREMY BELKNAP

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 169

PHILADELPHIA, May 9th, 1794.
Sir,

I have received, though really it has not been in my
power yet to read, the Pamphlet (The Revolution in
France, (?) N. Y., 1794) you were so obliging as to send
me. Your motives to writing it are highly laudable,
and I sincerely wish they may meet the reward which
is due to them. — I pray you accept my thanks for the
work, and to be assured that

I am — Sir
Your most obed. Serv.

G. WASHINGTON.
MR. NOAH WEBSTER, JUNR.

PHILADELPHIA i7th May, 1795.
Dear Sir:

(Private)

Your letter of the nth inst. came to hand by the
Post of yesterday.

With pleasure I received your acceptance of the
office of commissioner of the federal city. The com-
mission will be handed to you from the Department of
State, and the sooner you can enter upon the duties of
that trust, the more convenient and agreeable it will
be.

With the candor, which I am sure will be agreeable
to you, I shall intimate (for reasons which I shall not
at this time enumerate, but which will appear evident
after you have been there awhile) that a residence in
the city, if a house is to be had, will be more pro-
motive of its welfare than your abode in George Town.
— I shall add that the motives which induced a fixed
salary (which the first commissioners did not receive)
were that they should reside on the sort; — that they
were not only to plan and regulate the affairs of the
city — but to look to the execution of them also. — To

1 7o LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

accomplish which, with the greatest ease to themselves,
and best advantage to the public, I presumed that
after measures were decided on by the Board they
would have been so arranged as that each member
would have attended to the execution of a particular
part; — or if found more convenient, that in rotation,
each would have superintended the whole. — I could
not perceive however, when I was in the city last (the
only time since the change in the Board) that any such
arrangement had been adopted. In short, the only
difference I could perceive between the proceedings of the
old and the new commission results from the following
comparison. — The old met not oftener than once a
month except on particular occasions ; — the new meet
once or twice a week. In the interval the old resided
at their houses in the country; — the new reside at
their houses in George Town. The old had too much
of the business done by daily wages, and were obliged
to trust to overseers and superintendents to look to
the execution; — the new have gotten more into the
execution of it by contracts, and piece work, but rely
equally, I fear, on others to see to the performance.
These changes (tho* for the better) by no means apply
a radical cure to the evils that were complained of,
nor will they justify the difference of compensation
from six dollars per day for every day's attendance
in the city and sixteen hundred per annum.

My time will not permit me to go more into detail
on this subject, nor is it necessary; — your own good
judgment will supply you with more that I could add.
The year 1800 will be soon upon us; — The necessity
therefore of hurrying on the public buildings and
other works of a public nature and executing of them
with economy. — The propriety of preventing idleness
in those who have day or monthly wages, and im-
position by others, who work by measure — by the

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 171

piece — or by contract — and seeing that all contracts
are fulfilled with good faith, are too obvious to be
dwelt on, and are not less important than to form
plans, and establish rules for conducting, and bringing
to a speedy & happy conclusion this great and arduous
business. — With esteem and regard
I am — Dear Sir
Your obed. Sevt.

G. WASHINGTON.
ALEXANDER WHITE, Esq.

PHILADELPHIA, i8th May, 1794.
Dear Sir:

Your letter of the 7th inst. came duly to hand, with
•the Rental enclosed. —

As there are no houses, or any thing standing on my
lots in the Town & Common of Winchester, it is of no
great moment what is done with them. I am not dis-
posed to sell them, nor to part with them, or lease for a
long term, but if you could obtain an annual Rent for
either, or both, without running me to any expense, it
would, however small, be clear. With respect to my
lots in Bath, some thing ought to be done with them. —
The Buildings there on, together with the lots, stand me
in at least ^200 : but whether common interest can be
obtained in a Rent for them, you, who know the state
of things in that quarter can judge better of than I am
able to do. & therefore I leave it to you, to act for me
as you would for yourself. — If they were even let to
some one who would keep the buildings in Repair it
would be more desirable by far than, without a tenant,
or some person to take care of them, to suffer them to
fall to ruin. —

I do not know whether I clearly understand your
proposition of an exchange of the Land in Potomac for
a Lot in Berkeley County. — The first contains 240

I7a LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

acres instead of 140, as mentioned in your letter, 200 of
which is rich River bottom, which must as the Naviga-
tion of the River improves, become extremely valuable
from the produce it is capable of, besides the fine black
Walnuts which grow thereon, & would fetch a good
sum at the Federal City; if others can be restrained
from pilfering them. — On the other hand, I know of no
land I hold at the Mouth of Bullskin, nor any lease that
was ever given to a person of the name of Dimmett. —
No such name, I am pretty sure, is to be found in the
original list of my Tenants', and equally sure I am no
Leases have been given of late years (with my consent)
for three lives. — When you explain this matter more
fully, it will be more in my power than it is at present
to speak to you on this particular point. — Speaking of
Leases for lives, I am led to observe to you, that the
lives will never decrease, nor the proof of the existence
of those who were originally inserted. — I do not recollect
any instance of my changing names where the leases
have been transferred, & but few of my consenting to
transfers; which makes me more desirous of knowing
how a Person of the name of Demmett (which I do not
recollect at all) should be possessed of a lease for three
lives. — I hope Muse has not abused my confidence in
putting blank leases into his hands — signed — in order
to be filled up thereafter, by doing it improperly.

Although I can very illy spare the money arising
from the Rents you have collected ; yet, if the lots are
susceptible of such augmentation in the annual income ;
by purchasing in the leases as you think of, I consent to
your applying the money in your hands to this purpose,
in cases where there is a moral certainty of a consider-
able increase of Rent; and that the purchases are
made by the first of next November. — You will ascer-
tain precisely before you attempt these purchases —
ist what lives are certainly existing in them, & 2nd

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 173

whether the Covenants in them have been complied
with on the part of the Tenants, for in the first case I
may be purchasing that which belongs to me of right, —
and in the second case, that which they have forfeited
by a non-compliance with the conditions on which the
leases were granted. — You will recollect also, that by
the terms of one, or most of the leases, the Tenant is
not at liberty to sell to any one without my consent.

I am sorry you should meet with any difficulty about
the land I gave you, near the Accoceek old Iron Works.
— I am not possessed of any Papers belonging to it, nor
is it in my power to point you to any Office where they
are to be found ; but I should conceive that the tract is
so well known that all the adjoining land holders are
able to show you the bounds of it. — There was one
John Henry that knew it well — and I believe Col:
Charles Carter of Ludlow has some knowledge of it. I
have been told, that some person in Falmouth (whose
name I do not recollect) had pillaged the land of the
most valuable Pines thereon; and that either he, or
some other, talked of escheating it; but I never sup-
posed injustice would prompt any one to such a
measure. — Perhaps this, or some such mode might be
advisable for you, as the title Papers are not to be
found ; nor the manner in which my Mother came by it
to be traced with precision. — By Will (I have under-
stood) it was left to her by her father (Ball) but what
his Christian Name was I am unable to tell you, nor the
County he lived in with certainty but presume it was
Lancaster. — This Will seems to me to be the only clue
by which the title can be traced ; the bequest, probably,
may as usual contain some description of the Land.

Your aunt & the family joins me in best regards for
Mrs. Lewis. — I am — Dear Sir

Your Sincere friend & Affe. uncle
To MR. ROBT. LEWIS. GE. WASHINGTON.

i74 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

PHILADELPHIA, 29th. May, 1794.
Dear Sir,

I have duly received your letter of the i4th. instant.-

The enclosed to Mr. John Lewis, left open for your
perusal, will show what I require for myself, and am
willing to do for others. — Do you & he therefore, after
full enquiry into facts, point out what this ought to be
— and no delay shall be experienced from me. —

The two hundred pounds, for which you endorsed an
order upon a Merchant of this place, has been duly
paid. The remainder of the money due me for the pur-
chase of the lots (amounting to about two hundred
pounds more) I give, as I desired Mr. Howell Lewis to
inform you to my niece Mrs. Carter. — And by these
presents I confirm the gift. — Give my love to her

With great esteem & regard I am — Dear Sir
Your Obedient Servt.

™ ^ ^ T I? G. WASHINGTON.

To CHAS. CARTER, JR., Esqe.

PHILADELPHIA, 29th. May, 1794.
Dear Sir,

The letter of which the enclosed is a copy renders
further explanation on my part in a manner unneces-
sary— I must beg leave notwithstanding to add that
when mistakes happen the sooner they can be rectified
the better.

All I recollect of this matter (and that but imper-
fectly) is, that Colo. Lewis (your father), purchased
from a Michael Robinson for and on my account, the
lots in Fredericksburg on which my mother lived. —
Robinson (I believe) bought them of him, & no Deed
having been made for them he, to avoid trouble & the
expense of double transfers, conveyed them to me. —

If this was done by wrong numbers it is incumbent
on you as heir at law, to correct this error and it (may
seem) necessary that I should, for that same reason,

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 175

convey the lots in & 113 to the rightful owners of
them. —

I wish that you and Mr. Carter wd. examine into this
matter thoroughly, & whatever is proper to be done on
my part shall be executed without delay. —
I am Dear Sir

Your Obed. Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To JOHN LEWIS, Esq.

PHILADELPHIA 27th of June 1795.
Sir;

Please to deliver to Mr. Ross, or send them to him by
a careful hand, the Surveys of all my lands with which
you have been furnished —

And let me entreat you to make, without further
delay, a final settlement of the accounts between us ; —
pay what is in your hands, and deposit the statement
of all that is due me from the tenants, with the papers
showing the several tenements, with Mr. Nugent, that
he may, thereby, be enabled to go on with my busi-
ness.—

I am Sir

Your Hble. Servant,

G. WASHINGTON.
COL. JOHN CANNON.

PHILADELPHIA gth July 1795
Sir,

I have been favored with your letter of the 29th. of
April, accompanying your Memoir of a Map of Hin-
doostan, with engravings, etc. — for your kindness in
sending which I entreat you to accept my best thanks.

I have not had leisure yet to look over them, with
attention: but I am persuaded that there is a fund of
interesting information to be found in the work: for

176 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

the means of coming at which I am extremely thank-
ful.

I am — Sir

Your Obed. & very Hble Serv.

G. WASHINGTON.
JAMES RENNELL, ESQ.

PHILADELPHIA roth. July 1795
Revd. Sir,

It has so happened — but really I can hardly tell
how — that I have been very deficient in not ac-
knowledging, at an earlier period the receipt of your
obliging favor of the ist. of May last year, accom-
panying a copy of the works of the venerable Bishop
of Sodon & Man, which, agreeably to the Will of the
late Doctor Thomas Wilson (his son) you had the
goodness to send me. —

Accept now, I pray you Sir, my thanks for the part
you have executed in this business ; and the assurances
that my not having done it before did not proceed from
want of respect to the memory of the author — his son —
or yourself, but to mere accident. — With very great
respect

I am — Sir Your most

Obed. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
THE REVD. MR. C. CRUTTWELL.

PHILADELPHIA, July i8th, 1794.
Dear Sir,

If in a letter, not long since written to you, you were
authorized to rent the South tract of land I hold on
Difficult Road, in Loudon County, — I now desire that
you will not do it — I have had some overtures for the
purchase of it; and have been offered five pounds an
acre, giving credit, which I was willing to do, but the
thing that parted us at that time, and may possibly do

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 177

so for ever, was interest; he wanted credit without
paving this to which I would not consent — But as land
thereabouts is rising fast in value, I have no doubts of
obtaining the price & terms, & even more, by keeping
it up, provided it is not incumbered with a Lease. —

I authorised you in my last, to lay out the money
collected on my behalf for Rents due me, in purchas-
ing in the Leases, but restricted this operation not to
exceed (if I recollect rightly) the first of November. —
I now prolong it until the first of January (which closes
the present year) beyond which you are not at liberty
to apply money to this purpose, without further in-
structions from me. —

You must be very particular in examining into the
real State and condition of the Leases ; — f or if the ac-
counts of the Tenants (without this enquiry) is to
govern, the lives will never expire. — It is essential also
to know, if transfers have taken place, under what
authority it has happened; as there is a clause, or
covenant in the leases (if my memory serves me), re-
straining this, without written permission of the Land-
lord.— And if it shall appear, by any of the leases, that
an alteration of names, from the original instrument,
has taken place, to learn, with precision, by what means
it has taken place. — I shall expect written evidence of
these facts. — A verbal explanation without, from the
Tenants, will not satisfy me. —

My love to Mrs. Lewis in Wch. your Aunt joins
With affect friendship

I am Yours
To MR. ROBT. LEWIS. G. WASHINGTON.

PHILADELPHIA, July 28th, 1794.
Sir,

Your letter of the 29th. ulto. came to my hands a
few days ago only.

178 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Mr. Samuel Jackson (if that is the name of the per-
son who asked me sometime in the course of last winter
if I would dispose of my land in Fayette, & at what
price) must very greatly have misunderstood my an-
swer if he conceived thirty shillings an acre was the
value I had set upon it. —

The truth is, that at no period since I dissolved my
partnership with Simpson, & had any idea of parting
with this, & my other land West of the Alligany Moun-
tains, did I ever fix a less value than forty shillings pr.
Acre on the tract you live. — It is not to be presumed
then that I should lower my price when it was increas-
ing twenty five, fifty, and even an hundred pt. Ct. in
almost every direction. —

Mr. Jackson must have mistaken the tract in Wash-
ington County for that in Fayette, from the price ; for
thirty shillings pr. Acre was the value I put on that. —
The conversation I had with that Gentleman was very
short ; for when I found he did not mean to be the pur-
chaser himself, but was making enquiries merely to
satisfy his own curiosity or to gratify that of others, I
told him I had rated them at such & such prices, 4o/.
I think for that in Fayette & 3o/, for the others, & be-
ing asked if I would allow any credit, he was
answered yes; provided a certain part of the pur-
chase was paid at the time of ensealing & delivery;
and interest paid on the residue. But he was told at
parting, that as nothing final had taken place between
him & me, he was not to consider any thing that
passed between us, as binding upon me at a future
day. —

Mentioning this matter to a Gentleman well ac-
quainted with the value, & prices of land in that
Country he told me he thought the Land on wch. you
live (the whole tract I mean) would fetch Six dollars
an acre; — accordingly Mr. Ross of Washington (one

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 179

of your Senators) has been authorized to'sell both tracts.
Not knowing therefore what he may have done in this
matter I can not be more precise with you, at this time.
If the land is not already under engagement, and I do
not believe it is, as it is but lately the power to dispose
of is was given, it would give me plaesure that you shd.
have the preference, if Mr. Ross and you can agree on
the price. — And if you would pay a fourth of the pur-
chase down, you might have credit for the residue four,
five, or even six years, — giving the land, and your
Bond bearing the rest, as Security

With esteem & regard I am Sir
Yr Very Hble Serv

G. WASHINGTON.
To COLO. ISRAEL SHREVE.

GERMANTOWN, Augt. ioth., 1794.
Dear Sir,

We removed to this place about twelve days ago to
avoid the heat of Philadelphia, — & probably may re-
main at it until the middle of next month. It was here
I received your letter of the $th. instant, which came to
my hands yesterday.

The business of establishing Arsenals, and providing
proper places for them, is within the Department of
War ; the Secretary of which (General Knox) set out on
Friday last for the Provence of Main, and will not be
returned in less than six weeks. — But as I am persuaded
he has no idea (nor are there indeed funds provided
equal thereto) of giving 25,000 Dollars for the Site of
one, only, I would not have you, by any means, avoid
sowing wheat, or doing any thing else which you might
have had in contemplation to do, on Account of what
I mentioned to you in my last, on this subject. —

What (under the rose I ask it) is said or thought, as
far as it has appeared to you, of the conduct of the

People in the Western Counties of this State (Penn-
sylvania) towards the excise Officers? — and does there
seem to be a disposition among those with whom you
converse, to bring them to a sense of their duty, & obe-
dience to law by coercion, if, after they are fully notified
by Proclamation & other expedients of the conse-
quences of such outrageous proceedings, they do not
submit to the Laws of the United States, & suffer the
Collection of the duties upon Spirituous Liquors, &
Stills, to be made as in other places? — In a word —
would there be any difficulty, as far as the matter has
passed under your observation in drawing out a
part of the Militia of Loudon, Berkeley, & Frederick
to quell this rebellious spirit, & to support order & good
government? — You will readily perceive that questions
of this sort from me to you & your answers are for my
private information, & to go no further than ourselves.
I am sorry to hear that your bad state of health re-
quires the Waters of Bath, but hope they will restore
you — My love (in which Mrs. Washington unites) is
offered to Mrs. Ball & the family —

I am — Yr. Affecte.

G. WASHINGTON.
To COL. BURGESS BALL

PHILADELPHIA, Novr. 23d., 1794.
Dear Sir,

It has not been in my power to acknowledge, with
convenience, the receipt of your letter of the i4th. ulto.
until now;-first, because it did not get to my hands
until my return from the Westward, and 2dly, because
my attention, ever since to the present moment, has
been occupied in examing the various papers on which
my communications to Congress were to be founded. —

I do not see how any one can decide so well on the
project you have in contemplation as yourself, who has

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 181

a view of all the circumstances of the case, before you ;-
and who know how far so important a change in the
scene, as that of transplanting yourself and family into
a new country, is reconcilable to your feelings & dis-
positions.— and because, from the enquiries you have
undoubtedly made, you must better know than any
other who has turned his thoughts to the subject, what
you can sell for here, and buy at there. —

It has always been my opinion that new countries (by
this I mean the interior of our own) are the best to lay
the foundation of wealth, in as much as lands which
comparatively speaking, are to be had there cheap,
rise in a fourfold ratio to what they do on the Atlantic
Sea. — and it is to this circumstance, and the opportun-
ities of acquiring them (by being on the scene) that the
advantages consist. — as, until the navigation of the
Mississippi can be obtained, or the communication
between the Eastern & Western Waters be made more
easy, than is the case at present, the principal demand
for the product of the land is found in the emigrants
who resort to it. — To this cause also, is to be ascribed
the rapidly increasing prices of those lands. —

In one part of your letter, you talk of removing to
Kentucky ; and in another, of investing money in lands
to West of the Ohio, which creates a doubt as to your
principal view. You are not uninformed, I presume,
that there is no land office open at this time in the last
mentioned District; and that there is no means by
which land can be obtained there, at present, except by
purchase of Army rights, or from some of those com-
panies to whom Congress have sold large tracts : — and
in the present stage of our disputes with the Indians,
that no settlement is thought safe from the scalping
knife, that is not under the protection of some fort. —
The same indeed may be said of the frontiers of Ken-
tucky, while the central lands in that state are, as I am

i82 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

informed, selling very high. But of these facts you
must be better informed than I am. —

I should think it perfectly expedient — as soon as you
shall have resolved to sell your lands on Rappahanock
to advertise it in all the principal Gazettes, from
Richmond to New York inclusively ; and not to be too
hasty in dispossing of it, except for a very good price ;
as there are reasons to believe that in the course of this
winter and the ensuing spring and summer, many men
of property from Europe will remove to this country,
or send over their property, with a view to invest it,
either in our funds, or in lands. —

With respect to the other species of property, con-
cerning which you ask my opinion, I shall frankly de-
clare to you that I do not like even to think, much less
talk of it. — However, as you have put the question, I
shall, in a few words, give you my ideas of it. — Were it
not then, that I am principled agt. selling negroes, as
you would do cattle at a market, I would not, in twelve
months from this date, be possessed of one as a slave. —
I shall be happily mistaken, if they are not found to be
a very troublesome species of property ere many years
pass over our heads (but this by the bye) — For this
reason — and because there is but little sale for what is
raised in the western country, it remains for you to
consider whether their value would not be more pro-
ductive in lands, reserving enough for necessary pur-
poses, than to carry many of them, there. My love
to Mrs. Spotswood and the family.

I am — Dear Sir Your Affecte Servant

GE WASHINGTON.
To GEN-L. ALEXANDER SPOTSWOOD.

PHILADELPHIA, Jany. isth., 1795.
Sir,

I avail myself of your obliging offer to dispose of the

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 183

lands I hold in the counties of Fayette & Washington,-
hereby empowering you to see the same on the terms
which have been mentioned to you.

If one fourth of the money is paid at the time of con-
veyance or within a short period thereafter, I would
allow four, five or six years credit for the other three
fourths ; provided the payment thereof be well secured
agreeably to contract; and the interest in the mean-
while assured with punctuality as it becomes due, in
one of the Banks of this city— or in either of those of
Baltimore, Georgetown or Alexandria. The regular
payment of which, at stated periods being a primary
consideration with me. —

The tract in Fayette County contains 1,544^ acres
besides the usual allowance of P. C. — The other, by
Patent, is 2,813 acres but by aresurvey was found to
measure more than 3,000 acres. A description of them
would be nugatory, the presumption being that the
purchaser whomsoever he may be, will examine the
land and judge for himself. — It may not be amiss, how-
ever, that it should be generally known that both tracts
has improved, and that one of them has a mill there on,
and a considerable of Iron Ore within less than 30
yards of the Mill house. —

Having from long experience found that landed
property at a distance from the proprietor, who is not
able to pay attention to it, is more productive of plague
than profit, I feel strongly disposed to sell all the lands
I hold on the Ohio and Great Kanhawa; (about 33,000
acres)* in Seven surveys, provided I can obtain, by giv-
ing a pretty long credit, what I conceive it is worth. —
For the reason already mentioned, a particular des-
cription of these lands would in a manner be useless
but it may not be amiss to add, that they are the cream
of the country in which they lye, — the first chosen of it ;-
and are entirely free from disputes of every kind. —

i84 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

The whole is internal land, boarded by the rivers above
mentioned, and margined by them 59 miles. — They
consist of three Surveys on the Ohio, and four on the
Great Kanhawa. — The first named are on the East side
of the River, betwn. the little and great Kanhawa; —
the frost of these tracts, is the first large bottom below
the mouth of the little Kanhawa, and about 13 miles
from Mariatte; containing 2,314 ac., boarded by the
river 5^ miles. — The 2nd tract is the 4th large bottom
(on the same side of the river) about 16 miles lower
down, containing 2,048 acres, boarded by the river 3^
miles — the third tract, is the next large bottom, 3^
miles lower down, opposite nearly to the great bend,
containing 4,395 acres, with a margin of the River of
five miles. — The other four tracts are on the Great
Kanhawa, as observed before. — The first of them, is on
the West side; beginning about two miles from its
confluence with the Ohio, and boarded by the former
17 miles; containing 10,990 acres. — The seed, tract
is on the east side of the river a little higher up and con-
tains 7,276 acs. boarded by the river 13 miles. — The
other two are at the mouth of Cole River, on both
sides of the Kanhawa, and in the fork between ; contain-
ing together 4,950 acres having a front on the river (both
sides) of twelve miles. — Besides these have a small
tract of 587 acres on the Ohio, called the round bottom;
lying opposite to the mouth of Pipe Creek, which is
about 1 5 miles below Wheeling ; but nothing short of a
large price would induce me to part with this tract —
it is bordered by the river 2\ miles. — The soil is of the
very richest quality, is in the shape of a horse shoe, with
a beautiful situation for a house thereon.

Any services you can render me in the disposal of
these lands on the terms I have conversed with you

-

THE STUART PORTRAIT OF MARTHA WASHINGTON

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 185

respecting them, would be gratefully acknowledged by
Dear Sir, Your Obed. Hble. Serv

G. WASHINGTON.

(*) The exact quantity in these 7 surveys is 32, 373 acres.
To The HONBLE. JAMES Ross, Esq.

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. i8th, 1795.
Dear Sir,

Herewith, you will receive Plate, and description of
two tracts of land which I hold in Kentucky, on the
Waters of Eough Creek. — If you have any knowledge
of the land in the part of the country these are said to
lye in; or, if your brother John or any other within
your reach has, I shd. be obliged to you, for such in-
formation respecting them as can be obtained. I
wish also to know in what part of the state of Ken-
tucky they lye; — and what the selling price of lands
thereabouts is. — In a word, what you think mine are
worth from the description given of them — and part
they lye in.

The papers I send are copies, which you may keep;
and when you go in to Kentucky, as I think you said it
was your intention to do the coming Spring, I would
thank you for investigating this subject fully, and for
writing me a particular account of the Land, and what
you suppose it is worth and would sell for, — whether
they lye in or out of the settled part of the State — what
the properties of the land are, — and whether the
streams with which it is said to abound are fit for water
works. — If they lye near your own lands I could wish
to receive the details from your own view of them, and
observation thereon. —

My love to Mrs. Lewis, in which your aunt and the
family join, concludes me your sincere friend and

affectionate uncle
To GEORGE LEWIS. Go. WASHINGTON.

i86 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

PHILADELPHIA, lyth. May, 1795.

Sir,

I have received your letter of the 8th. inst. — and if
writings drawn strictly conformable to the spirit of the
instructions contained in the enclosed letter to Charles
Lee, Esqr. (left open for your perusal) will answer your
views in the purchase of my land on Difficult run they
may be prepared by him, and sent to me for the sig-
nature on my part. — for the other hand adhering as
strictly as I do to the principle on which I set out, does
not meet your approbation, be so good as to return the
letter and deeds therein, & the receipt of them will
not be less acceptable than the first named writings.

You will perceive by these instructions, that not a
stick of timber, wood, coal or ore (if any should be on
the land) is to be removed therefrom, until the purchase
money is paid. — This may be interpreted (at first view
a rigid clause ; inasmuch as the ground which may be
cleared, & the timber which may be cut for fencing &
other purposes, might afford more firewood that the
immediate demand of the farm might require; — this
may be true, but it does not follow that it will be lost if
corded. — To husband it therefore (while I retain an
interest in the land) ; to avoid all inducement to fell it,
faster than the farm may require; — and to avoid all
ground for dispute. — in a word, not to lessen the value
of the property until it is actually gone from my use my
motives to this precaution especially, as the removal
from off the land of a timber tree or two or a few cords
of wood might give rise to a magnified pale which might
induce investigation; & be productive of unpleasant
sensations: — to avoid which is more desirable than to
apply a remedy.

I am Sir, Your Obedient Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To MR. JOHN GILL,

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 187

PHILADELPHIA, i7th. May, 1795.
Dear Sir,

Mr. Gill (of Alexandria) and I, have been in treaty
some time for a small tract of land which I hold in
Loudoun County on Difficult run, at the bridge on the
Leesburgh road. — If he will agree to the following terms
from the spirit of which there will be no departure —
such writings as will subserve both of our purposes, I
pray you to draw. —

ist. For him to hold the land by lease, for the term
of ten years, to commence from the date of the
instrument for the use and occupation of which
he is to pay in coin of the United States, or other
money current at the time, & equivalent thereto,
four hundred and thirty three dollars and a
third yearly, and every year during the contin-
uance of the said lease, at the Bank of Alex-
andria, for which a check is to be given. —
2nd. If any part of the said sum of 433 J shall be be-
hind, or unpaid in manner aforesd, thirty days
after the same shall become due, it shall & may
be lawful (and optional for me to re-enter and
take possession of the premises as if no such
lease had ever been granted, — and if property
shouldn't be found thereon adequate to the rent,
recourse in the ordinary mode may be resorted
to for recovery of the same. —
3rd. That not a timber tree — stick of wood, coal
made therefrom — or ore, if any be on the land,
shall be removed therefrom under any pretense
whatsoever ; or used otherwise than for the pur-
poses of the premises.

4th. That for the support and benefit of the same,
there shall be left standing on the said tract, at
the expiration of the lease a fourth part, at
least, of the wood,

i88 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

5th. It is understood and agreed, and the parties
accordingly are to bind themselves as follow —
viz. — John Gill, his heirs &ca. to pay to George
Washington his heirs &ca. on or at any time be-
fore the expiration of the aforementioned term
of ten years, the sum of Six thousand, six hun-
dred and sixty six dollars, & two thirds of a
dollar, in the manner aforementioned ; — and for
surety thereof is to give his own bond if suffici-
ent penalty. — In consideration of which pay-
ment, well and truly performed George Wash-
ington, or his heirs &c. is to convey, in fee
simple, the aforesaid tract ; and the rent thence-
forward is to cease, & determine. —

6th. Where by Deeds of lease & release from the
Revd. Mr. Fairfax to me, the stream of Diffi-
cult run is made the boundary between the land
thus conveyed, and land conveyed by Deed from
(space in original) to on the other, or lower side
of the run whereas by the last mentioned deed,
a straight line is called for as the boundary be-
tween the two tracts, which may, according to
circumstances, occasion a diminution in the
quantity of my land; now it is understood and
agreed, (be this as it may) that no alteration,
consequent thereof, is to take place in the rent,
or in the purchase money of this tract: for by
the tract and not by the acre, I sell it. — The Deed
from Mr. Fairfax to me specifies two hundred &
seventy five acres only: Just by a resurvey, if I
recollect rightly, it measures Three hundred &
three acres, — but I mean to give no other war-
rants than I have received of it ; — and from this,
to accept what might be involved in dispute
by the different lines, & so I would have it

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 189

expressed, in order to avoid a controversy
hereafter. —
With great esteem and regard

I am — Dear Sir, Your Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To CHARLES LEE, Esqr.

PHILADELPHIA, 25th. May 1795.
Sir,

With much sensibility I received your polite letter
of the 25th. of March from Kingston. —

I thank you, Sir, for the plants which are mentioned
in the list which accompanied it. — Presuming they ar-
rived at Norfolk with the letter, I have requested a
gentleman of my acquaintance at that place to forward
them to my Garden at Mount Vernon on the Potomack
River, near Alexandria, Virginia, and I feel myself
particularly obliged by the offer to supply me with
other plants for the Botanical gardens in Jamaica.

When my situation will allow me to pay more at-
tention than I am able to do at present, to situations of
this kind, which combine utility, ornament and amuse-
ment— I shall certainly avail myself of the liberty you
have authorized me to take, in requesting a small
supply of such exotics, as, with a little aid may be re-
conciled to the climate of my garden. — In the mean-
time, I will cause inquiry to be made for the plants
which are required for your garden at Liguanea agree-
ably to the list of Mr. Wiles. —

I am, Sir Your Obedt. Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To FARLIE CHRISTIE, Esqe.

PHILADELPHIA, June 27th., 1795.
Sir,
, Had the terms on which I offered you my land in

i9o LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Fayette county been complied with on your part, the
bargain, as I informed you in my letters, would have
been conclusive on mine. — But this not being done, and
the end of June likely to be as reproductive as the first
of it, of the payment which was then to have been made,
I conceive myself under no obligation to fulfil the offer
I made you on the i4th of January last, of the above-
mentioned land. — Nevertheless, if by the first day of
August next you shall pay One thousand pounds
Pennsylvania curry, with interest thereon down the
first day of June — and interest on the remaining sum
from that first of June agreeably to the former pro-
posals, in the letter above mentioned — and do, more-
over pay up all arrearages of Rent (on account of which
I learn from Colo. Cannon, to my very great surprise,
much is due) the conveyance will be made to you in
the same manner as if payment had, according to
agreement, taken place on the first of this month. — If
it is not, I do hereby declare, that the former agreement
& the present offer, will be considered as null and void,
to all interests and purposes, as much so, as if no ne-
gotiation had ever taken place between us for the said
land. —

With esteem & regard I am — Sir

Your Very Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To COLO. ISRAEL SHREVE.

PHILADELPHIA, 28th June, 1795.
Sir,

Business, and other circumstances, have prevented
my acknowledging the receipt of your letter of the 23d.
of April until now, that I do it by Mr. Ross. —

I have seen Colo. Cannon, and in strong terms have
represented to him the impropriety of his delay in fur-
nishing you with a statement of the concerns between

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 191

(him in my behalf) and the tenants in the counties of
Fayette & Washington, & in not making a final settle-
ment of all the accounts between us. — If any depen-
dence can be placed in his assurances, he would as soon
as he returned home be ready to render his accounts,
and give in this statement which has been required of
him — but he is continually reducing the Rents under
pretence of allowing for improvements. — This, to be
sure, is singular enough, for fencing &ca. of plantations or
farms which have been settled fifteen or twenty years. —
If the tenants on Dogue run have carried wheat to Colo.
Cannon's mill, it behoves them to receive payment for
it, and therewith to discharge their rents to you ; for I
shall look to them and not to him, from whom I can get
nothing without more trouble than it is worth — and
who ought not to have concerned himself with the
business after it was put in your hands which are due
after that period. —

It would be well to ascertain what is due from Colo.
Shreve on account of Rent as soon as possible for he will
receive no conveyance of the lands on which he lives
until all the arrears due thereon (as well as the first
payment of the purchase money) are paid up.

Having experienced more losses than profit in col-
lecting the rents of the lands in the counties before
mentioned. It is my intention to sell both tracts if I
can obtain what I conceive to be my worth of them as
leases therefore might impede the sale, I am not dis-
posed at this time, under these circumstances to give
any. — Among the papers which were deposited in the
hands of Colo. Cannon, were copies of the Surveys of
my lands on the Ohio & great Kanhawa; — if these
should have been received by you, I request that they
may be given, or by some safe conveyance sent to Colo.
Ross your Senator. — And I pray you to write me, as
soon as you can, what state my business is in with the

i92 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Tenants — what sum you have actually received on
account of Rent — what you have a prospect of soon
receiving — and what is due. — In short, I wish to know
what the real situation of ray affairs, as they respect
these tracts is. —

I do not know of any business which the United
States have, at the time that requires Surveyors, nor
likely to be until a land office is opened, whether this
will happen I know no more than you do.
I am Sir

Your very Hble. Servt.
To MR. CHAS. MORGAN. G. WASHINGTON.

PHILADELPHIA, loth July, 1795.
Sir,

Your letter of the 9th of March, and the works which
accompanied it, I have had the pleasure to read — but
not that of seeing Mr. Wilson ; who either from his own
engagements, or knowledge he obtained of mine, must
have been prevented from calling. — For the books I
thank you. —

You much over rate any civilities which chance may
have enabled me to show you in the course of the War
between Great Britain and this country. The view
which you are to take of the latter, is flattering to it. —
I hope it will deceive none who may turn their atten-
tion hitherward. —

I have the honor to be Sir
Yr. Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To GENL. NORMAN McLEOD.

(Private) PHILADELPHIA 7th. Feby. 1796

Dear Sir

I am glad to find by the last letter which we have
received from our friend in the Federal City that you

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 193

had recovered from the indisposition the proceeding
ones announced.

You will perceive by the enclosed advertisement,
that I am making an essay to accomplish what I com-
municated to you in confidence when I was last in
Virginia. — I call it an essay because I have no sanguine
expectation of ameliorating the plan so far as to carry
it into complete effect in the course of next year. — If
I can succeed so far as to be enabled to give up the
Dower negros at all, and at terms below what impartial
me, & shall say their hire is worth, it will amount to
the full extent of my expectation, and this I would wish
to accomplish before the other part of my plan is at-
tempted : — and quite enough it will be, when it is con-
sidered how much the Dower Negros and my own are
intermarried and the former with the neighboring
Negros, to part whom will be an affecting and trying
affair, happen when it will. — For which, and other rea-
sons, I wish no mention to be made thereof until the way
is a little more open ; — until I see what effect the adver-
tisement will have ; — I shall soon tell from these devel-
opements. I shall be able to take more decisive
measures; — or in other words, then I shall be able to
support myself without these aids. — If I can accom-
plish the first part of the plan, in any manner tolerably
convenient & satisfactory to all that are interested in
it, I certainly will do it. — The whole part must depend
in some measure on the succedaneum; & an elibable
mode of carrying it into effect. — The current of my
wishes is stronger to the second than to the first part of
the plan, but reasons of a political — indeed of im-
perious nature must make it a posterior operation.

Among other reasons for promulgating, as exten-
sively as I mean to do, the renting of my farms, is the
expectation that some of the Gazettes in which the
advertisement is inserted, will find their way into

i94 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

England or Scotland, and may induce such associations
as are therein alluded to, to form and come out, for I
have no idea of frittering up the farms, for the accomo-
dation of our country farmers, whose knowledge —
practice at least — centres in the destruction of the
land, and very little beyond it. I neither expect nor
desire that associations from either England or Scot-
land would form and come out hap-hazard; but such
associations might send a confidential person to espy
the land. — and report to them: and if it should fall
in your way to suggest anything of this sort to any of
the British merchants* of your acquaintance as from
yourself, I should be obliged to you. — I shall in less
than a week, or on this day week, communicate the
terms on which these farms (will be let to M. S. Faar-
say (?) )

I find by our last letters from the Federal city that
Betsey Custis has cast her lot — very much she says,
to her own satisfaction — having given it due weight
and consideration in every point of view she could
place the matter so, of course disparity in age could
not have escaped. — Mr. Law, so far as I have obtained
any knowledge of his character, is a respectable man
and much esteemed, — and is reputed to be wealthy: —
but he is a stranger, and may, at least in a degree, be
an Agent, for which reasons, I think prudence requires,
and as a man of honor he cannot refuse, to make a
settlement upon her previous to marriage; — of her
own fortune, if no more.

Speaking on this subject, it reminds me of another,
which has anology to it; — that is — in allotting to Mr.
Thomas Peter the Negros who fell to the share of his
wife had you adverted to the circumstance, that
Mrs. Washington's Dower Negros (which were hired
to her father) were not to have been among those to
a share of whom she has any claim? — If you did not,

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 195

and they assisted to form the aggregate, of which
the division was made, the proceeding was either
wrong, or I am under a misconception of the right of
Washington Custis. — I suggest the quest for informa-
tion, ist as to the fact — next, if the case has happened,
as to the right, then if a mistake has happened, the
sooner it is rectified the better. — With great esteem
and regard, I am Dear Sir

Your affectionate G. WASHINGTON.
DAVID STUART, Esq.

*In Alexandria or Dunfries only, I mean.
To David Stuart, Esq., ;th. Feb. 1796. P

PHILADELPHIA, i4th. Novr., 1796.
Sir,

Your letter of the 9th. has been duly received. —
When I authorized Mr. Pearce to sell my flour, I limited
him to the largest credit the circumstances of my own
concert would enable me to give, consistently with my
own wants & the arrangements I had contemplated. —
To extend the credit ninety days longer, would not only
damage my own plans — but, as the same causes will
always produce the same effects, — at the end of ninety
days, a further indulgence might be required. —

It is from the produce of this flour that Mr. Pearce
himself; — all the Overseers, — and a variety of other
incidental expences, are to be paid. — It is, and ever has
been a rule with me, never to suffer a man to look for a
just debt without receiving payment; — and before I
left home (repeating it since) in very strong terms, I
have directed Mr. Pearce to settle with every one, and
pay to the last farthing I owe; that there may be no
after claim when he is gone, either upon his successor or
myself. I mention these facts and circumstances, to
show you how inconvenient it will be for me to comply
with your request.

196 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Nevertheless, being unwilling to distress anyone, if it
be possible to avoid it, I shall direct Mr. Pearce in the
letter. I am about to write to him, to say, to ascertain
the aggregate sum required, to pay the demands upon
him, on my account, and if you will give him the most
& equivocal surety of paying it on, or before the 24th of
December (that he may have time between that and
the first of January to clear himself out ;) and will give
unquestionably security also that the residue shall be
paid on or before the first day of March. — both sums
carrying interest from the day they have become due
until paid that he may fix the matter with you agree-
ably thereto. I cannot forbear aiding, however, that the
receipt of the whole sum, on the day it becomes due,
would be infinitely more pleasing to me. but if this can-
not be, you are to expect no favor from me in case of a
second disappointment. —

I am — Sir,

Your Very Hble. Servt.
To MR. ALEXR. SMITH. G. WASHINGTON.

[PHILADELPHIA] Tuesday, 27th. Deer., 1796.

(Private)
Dear Sir,

I am sorry to hear that your cold is obstinate, & your
indisposition continues.

If it will permit you to give a little attention to the
Virginia address, to day, that it may be dispatched by
the Post of tomorrow, I would thank you. —

In the moment I received it, I sketched something by
way of an anoner, but whether I have therein said too
much, or too little for the circumstances attending the
address, — or whether those circumstances ought to
have the least influence in the reply (notwithstanding
as you will perceive by the Gazette enclosed, & which I
request may be returned, what the temper of the State

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 197

is relative to the Administration) is problamatical : —
Therefore, and because you are better acquainted with
the Legislature of politics of Virginia than I am I would
be guided by your advice and accordingly, if your
health will allow it, I should be obliged to you for an
entire new draught of an answer, on such unreserved
corrections of the one sent as you may think is per-
fectly applicable to the case — civil & unexceptionable.
— I wish you better health and am your sincere friend
and Affectionate Servant

G. WASHINGTON.

P. S. If you are unable to attend to this matter,
pray send the papers back by the bearer.
To ATTY. GENL. CHARLES LEE, Esqe.

[PHILADELPHIA] January i3th., 1797.
Dear Sir,

For want of a Memo, from the Overlooker of my
Carpenters (which I thought I had brought with me
from Mount Vernon) I am unable to furnish an accurate
Bill of the Plank & Scantling my purposes require ; —
but as the former of these never comes amiss to me, I
would enage

5000 feet of Inch}

2500 Do of i ^ & >as free as possible from 'sap.
1000 Do of i £ )

and should be glad to know from the person in whom
you could most confide, whether upon receiving a Bill
of Scantling & an additional 9 ft. of Plank, after I re-
turn home, I could be supplied therewith,— delivered
at Mount Vernon, & in how short a time after receiving
the said Bill. — With very great esteem & regard
I am — Dear Sir

Your Obedt. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
To The HONBLE. JOHN HENRY

198 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

PHILADELPHIA, 5th. Feb., 1797.
Mr. Anderson,

Your letter of the ist. instant, with the weekly re-
ports are received. —

If all that part of the new road from the causay to
the white gates is completed and fit for use, it has gone
on better than I expected; and makes me wish more
that the other part was done ; that the whole might be
fit for use against my return, but I do not desire it to
be attempted to the injury of more important work. —

When Davy is about the fencing at Muddy Hole, let
that part on which the gate is (going into the farm)
be continued in a straight line, as it now runs, until it
strikes the new road, and then in a parallel line there-
with, until it joins the fence again on the hill, before it
reaches the causay after which, to run as it now does to-
wards No. 6, when over that part of it shall be repaired.

The method you propose, to get the Peas, from Mr.
Lawson Carter, is much better than sending all the
distance by land, in the state the roads now are, & will
be until they are well settled after frosts are entirely
over. — But notwithstanding these peas as promised
by that gentleman, I would not have you be too san-
guine of the receipt of them, unless you should receive
from him, positive assurance thereof — the quantity —
and when, and how they are to be obtained. — Of course,
it may not be amiss to devise, in time, what is to be
done in case of failure. —

I consent to your cultivating in corn the field at
Dogue run which is mentioned in your letter, and leave
the whole arrangement, of the crops at Union farm to
your own judgment, but you have not attended to the
quantity in that part of Va. which lyes between the
meadow, mill road lane going into the Barn therefrom,
if you suppose it contains 80 acres. — it will amount to
more than 50 at most. —

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 199

In clearing that piece of Mill swamp adjoining the
road (and I am glad you have undertaken it) do not
think it too much of single trees thereby stripping it of
both shade & ornament. — I am perfectly satisfied of the
great quantity of ground I have, capable of being con-
verted into good meadow and have wished always to do
it — but, these wishes (and being so much from home)
have not met the means of accomplishment.

Grain harrowed in, certainly looks better in Autumn,
than that which is planed ; — but in land which is apt
to heave (or spew as it is called) the moulderings on the
ridges when ploughed, gives, as is supposed, fresh earth
and nourishment to the roots and therefore is pre-
ferred by many farmers — experience only, in such
soils, can alone decide the question. —

I shall be able to ascertain on good conjectural
grounds what may be expected for flour & will let you
know when, and at what price to sell. — In the mean-
time keep me advised of the prices of that article in
Alexandria.

As spades, shovels, scythes, nails, nail rods — Iron
plates for the mould boards of ploughs — Bar iron &
most other things can be had upon better terms here
than in Alexandria — & as I must engage a vassal to
carry my furniture round — let me know the quantity,
& sorts of each of these articles that will be wanted — &
any others and I will endeavour to provide them. —
Do you not want Riddles for gleaning grain &ca. —
How many and of what degrees of finess?

Send me the sizes of the four rooms on the lower
floor (at Mount Vernon) which open into the passage.

Have you Buck Wheat for Seed? although my at-
tempts, hitherto, to raise it as a crop, and for a green
dressing have never answered my expectations, yet I
am very willing it should undergo further trials.

I think of nothing more, at present, necessary to

200 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

add — but wishing you well in all your plans I remain
Your friend

G. WASHINGTON.
To MR. JAMES ANDERSON.

PHILADELPHIA, 6th. Feb., 1797.
Dear Sir,

The 3d of March which is fast approaching, will put
an end to my political career ; and I shall have another
to commence through mud & mire, to reach more
tranquil scenes at Mount Vernon. — This I shall do
without delay, or attempt it at least, be the roads in
what condition, they may, at that time. —

To enable me to accomplish this journey, with such
baggage as I do not incline to risk by water, I shall
want a pair of strong horses that are true & steady to
the draught fera waggon, lighter than a coachee, to
carry some trunks (not heavy) at the rate we shall
travel, which must be soon.

Would you oblige me so far as to make this purchase,
and to have the horses in this City by the first day of
March? — I should prefer , Mares, and wish them to
match in (any) colour. — They ought not to exceed Six,
or at any rate seven years old next spring — nor ought
they to be under fifteen hands high. — As they will be
put to the Plough, or Waggon, after I get them home.
I should prefer cheapness to appearance ; & the reason
why I mention Mares instead of Geldings, is, that
Mules may be bred from them afterwards — but I must
take either.

Be so good as to let me know, without delay, whether
I can, or cannot, place certain dependence on you for
the purchase, & having them here by the time before
mentioned. — The money shall be paid on delivery; or
if required, shall be sent to you before ; for the purpose
of instant payment. —

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 201

I will offer no apology for giving you this trouble, be-
cause I persuade myself you are disposed to serve me
in it.

With esteem I am — Dear Sir

Your Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.

P. S. Let me request the favor of you to have the
steadiness of the horses to the draught proved, before
they are sent here ; — f or to be plagued with them on the
road would be dreadful —
To MR. MATTHIAS SLOUGH.

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 7, 1797.
Dear Sir,

The enclosed is the copy of a letter I wrote you agree-
ably to the date ; but as it was to take its chance from
the stage office, and letters by private conveyances do
not always get to their destination, I trouble you with
a duplicate ; as well on that account, as because I find
my journey home requires the purchase of a third horse,
or Mare, for the draught. —

This third one, must, in every respect, be confor-
mable to the description of the last one except (as it
is to go with three others which I have) that it ought
to be a bay, and of somewhat better figure. — For the
reason mentioned in my last, I should prefer, greatly,
Mares ; and if they were to be here before the first of
March (that they might be exercised together, & with
breast plates instead of collars) it would be desirable. —

At any rate let me hear from you as soon as con-
venient that I may know what to depend upon. — With
esteem & regard,

I am — Dear Sir —

Yr. Obedt, Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
To MR. MATTHIAS SLOUGH.

202 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

PHILADELPHIA, 27th Feb. 1797.
Dear Sir,

Your letter of the 22d. inst. was delivered to me
yesterday morning by Mr. Root, who also delivered the
Mares & horse. — The latter being too clumsy about the
head & legs to suit my carriage horses, and too high in
price for a common plough horse, I return him ; since,
as you say, no inconvenience will attend it. — I must
now, as I expect to leave this in ten days, depend upon
purchasing a horse, or Mare in this City or neighbour-
hood.— You will please therefore to take the price of the
Mares, and whatever incidental expenses have been in-
curred in getting them and the horse here, out of the
Six hundred Dollars sent you. — I have paid Mr. Root
nothing, as you did not mention, in your letter, on
what terms he was to bring them down: — whatever
you do in this case will be satisfactory to me. —

I am very sensible of the polite attentions of the
Inhabitants of Lancaster, as expressed by you ; but as I
am anxious to get home, and shall have almost as far to
it from that Borough as from hence, and the Road after
quitting the Turn pike very little better, I shall pursue
the most direct & usual rout to obtain the end. — For
the good wishes you have expressed for me, on the
anniversary of my birth, I pray you to accept the
best thanks of

Dear Sir

Your Obedt. Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To MR. MATTHIAS SLOUGH.

MOUNT VERNON, 1 2th June 1797
Dear Sir,

If you have had leisure to examine my unimproved
lot in Alexa, more attentively, and have digested
any plan in your own mind for an advantageous

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 203

division of it, I would thank you for the result, as I
wish to fix on a Plan.

I was informed, when in Town last, that Mr. Voss
(I think the name is) would give i8d. a sqr. yard for
the earth to make bricks — & that he would not deface,
or injure the lot in doing so. — What is your opinion
on this point? —

Mr. Anderson has engaged me in a distillery, on a
small scale, and is very desirous of increasing it: —
assuring me from his own experience in this country,
& in Europe that I shall find my acct. in it; partic-
ularly in the benefits my stock would derive from it. —
The third is new to me, in toto; but in a distillery of
another kind (Molasses) you must have a good general
knowledge of its profits, — & whether a ready sale
of the Spirit is to be calculated on from grain (prin-
cipally to be raised on my own farms) and the offal of
my mill. I therefore have taken the liberty of asking
your opinion on the proposition of Mr. Anderson. —
Such a house as he requires, except the Stiles, I could
provide at a small expenditure. —

With very great esteem & regard
I am — Dear Sir
Your affecte.

G. WASHINGTON.
COLO. JOHN FITZGERALD.

MOUNT VERNON, 14 June, 1797.
Revd. Sir,

It is with regret I find myself under the necessity of
becoming an apologist for others.

Until lately I had no other expectation, or wish, than
that the two misses (my nieces & cousin to each other)
were preparing for their journey to & establishment
at Bethlehem. — But I am informed that one of them
(Maria Washington) on whose acct. the first applica-

204 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

tion was made, is in very declining health (in short
that she is in a consumption) and the before adjudged
by her Aunt, with whom she lives, is unfit for the
charge which had been contemplated and as a principal
inducement to the other's (daughter to Colo. Bab)
going was that they might continue together, I have
been advised (both living at a considerable distance
from me) that, under the circumstances I have related,
it is not intended now, to send either.

I hope, as it always appeared to me that your con-
sent to admit these girls at the time you did — the
School being full — was matter of favour, for which I
felt the obligation, that no inconvenience will result
from the change which has taken place.
With very great esteem & respect,
I am Rev. Sir

Yr. Obedt. & Obliged Hble. Servt.
G. WASHINGTON.
To Mr. JACOB VAN VLECK.

MOUNT VERNON 25th June 1797
Dear Sir,

Your favor of the nth. of Feb: and a duplicate
thereof, have been duly received, and I pray you to
accept my best thanks for the trouble you have had
in tracing to its origin, the history of the Sword which
came to my hands last year in the manner communi-
cated in a former letter, — As it is more than probable
you will have left Holland before this letter can be
received I shall give you no further trouble in the affair
than merely to inform you that I have never seen,
or heard more of Alte than the account given of him
in your letter of the above mentioned date. —

I am now, as you supposed the case would be when
you then wrote, seated under my Vine & Fig-tree;
where, while I am permitted to enjoy the shade of it,

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 205

my vows will be continually offered for the welfare
& prosperity of our country ; and for the support, ease
& honor of the Gentleman to whom the administration
and its concerns are entrusted. — I have expressed to
him my sentiments, & wished that you may be induced
to continue the Diplomatic line; and these sentiments
and wishes, are the result of the general conviction
of its utility, as it relates to the public interest. —

For the kind expression which you have extended
to me, for the approbation of those sentiments I have
the honor of subscribing to my countrymen unsought
Valedictory, I have a grateful sense. I thank you for
communicating then, the approbation of good & wishes,
which is the most pleasing reason my mind is suscep-
tible of, for any service it has been in my power to
render my Country.

With great truth & sincerity, I have the honor to be
Dear Sir

Your most Obed. & Affec.

G. WASHINGTON,
JOHN QUINCY ADAMS, Esqr.

MOUNT VERNON, 26th. June, 1797.
Sir,

From the good report I have had of your improved
threshing machine, I am desirous of getting one or two
of them erected, and as expediously as possible. —

The Scaneling for two, upon the Plan of Mr. Jeffer-
son & others, of the Scotch machine, had been got be-
fore I received the account of yours ; and may, I pre-
sume, be appropriated to the latter. The purpose
therefrom of this letter, is to know if you would under-
take to erect mine, — so, if your other engagements
should prevent your personal attendance, whether a
person in whose knowledge & skill in the matter, you
cd. place entire confidence, could be sent;— or, lastly

206 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

whether you could spare time to make me a visit for the
purpose of directing my own Carpenters (six or 7 in
number, & some of them competent to follow any di-
rection) to proceed to the execution, and for which die
compensation would be made you.

I must beg the favour of a speedy answer (by Post to
Alexandria) that I may know what I have to rely on;
for if I cannot have them erected upon your plan in a
short time, I shall proceed upon the one I had at first
contemplated, so desirous am I of getting my Wheat
out early. —

I am — Sir

Your Obedt. Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To MR. WILLIAM BOOKER.

MOUNT VERNON, 26th June, 1797.
Dear Sir,

When you informed me that Mr. Booker was erect-
ing a threshing machine for one Gentleman in your
neighbourhood, I expressed a wish that he would come
hither, but intended before we parted to have been more
pointed in my request on this head, but your trip to the
Federal City and early departure the morning after
you returned, were the occasions of my forgetting to
do so. —

Let me now ask the favour of you, if Mr. Booker is at
the place you supposed he would be, to endeavour to
engage him to proceed (and at as early a moment as he
can make it convenient) to this place ; if it was only for
the purpose of directing my people, if he could not him-
self remain to see the execution, how to proceed; —
The cantling for one of the Scotch machines being al-
ready prepared, wants only a director to make the al-
terations, " put it together. — For his time, and trouble
he shall be paid. — At any rate, if this letter should get

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 207

to your hands, let me know what dependence I can have
on Mr. Booker. —

I have discovered many of the Hassian flies in my
Wheat since you left this; but their attack of it was
made too late to do it much injury ; but as they may be
considered as the harbingers of those that are to come,
I am under considerable apprehensions from this threat-
ened calamity. — I began my Wheat on Thursday last,
and find the growth good, however short the crop
may be. —

Present our love to Mrs. Carter and be assured of the
great esteem & affectionate regard of
Dear Sir

Your Obedient Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To CHARLES CARTER, Esq.

MOUNT VERNON, 26th June, 1797.
Dear Sir,

Until last week, I had no suspicion that the Hassian
fly was among my Wheat, but upon examination I
found there were many. — They have come too late
this year, however, to do me much damage; but as I
view them as the harbingers of those who will visit me
next year, I would guard, as far as it may be in my
power, against the threatened evil. —

Permit me therefore to ask, if from your own ex-
perience, or from that of others on what you can rely
it is ascertained whether Rye or Barley (Winter or
Summer) is liable to this calamity? — In the country
above me, the Wheat, I am informed, entirely de-
stroyed (in places) by this fly and from the appearances
of them among mine it is but too probable it would be
the case with mine next year, if I do not substitute
other grain in its place. — But what grain is the impor-
tant question? Are oats affected by these flies?

ao8 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Where this calamity has not visited the Wheat the
grain is remarkably fine, and the quality not to be heard
of. — Present me, if you will do it in respectful terms to
Mrs. Peters thereto with the compliments of Mrs. Wash-
ington.— With great esteem & regard I am — Sir
Your Affectione. & Hble. Servant,

G. WASHINGTON.
To RICHD. PETERS, Esq.

MOUNT VERNON, July 2, 1797.
Dear Sir,

I have been in continual expectation of hearing that
Colo. Shreve had deposited the amount of his second
instalment in the Bank of Pennsylvania, agreeably to
contract ; but as a month has elasped since it ought to
have been done and no account of a payment there —
and as it has been usual with him to offer these in
driblets — by anybody — at any time — & in any manner
— regardless of his obligation thereby depriving me of
the advantage of counting upon the money at the
period when it becomes due which was a principal in-
ducement to the sale I have enclosed you his Bond
with a request that would put it suit, or take such
other measures to obtain payment at his cost as you
shall deem expedient. — Below is the sums which have
actually been reed. The Instalments. — My best re-
spects are presented to Mrs. Ross, & with very great
esteem & regard — I am always,
Dr. Sir

Yr. Obedt. Hble. Servant.

G. WASHINGTON.
To the HON. JAS. Ross, Esq.

MOUNT VERNON 3d July 1797
Dear Sir

Not believing that Congress would adjourn so soon
as some expected ; — and hoping that Colo. Shrave would

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 209

not lay me under the necessity of putting his Judgment
Bond in suit, I have forborne until now, to send it to
Mr. Ross for that purpose. — But as I believe he is one
of that description of men who have very little idea
of punctuality ; — and as my wants require all my re-
sources, I have now forwarded it under cover to you : —
but request that you would be so good before the letter
which encloses it is handed to Mr. Ross, to enquire at
the Bank of Pennsylvania if Shreve, or anyone in his
behalf, has deposited therein for my use the sum of
about two thousand dollars. — In case this is done, I
pray you to return to me my letter to Mr. Ross. — If
there be no deposit, then to give, or send it to that
Gentleman by a safe conveyance. —

By the public Gazettes, two things seem to be cer-
tain : — Preliminaries between France & Austria of Peace,
and a dangerous Crisis in England. — A third however
is necessary to give tranquility to this country, and that
is actual Peace between the latter & France. Whether
that would produce harmony is at least problematical,
for I am sure the views of some among us would not
be promoted by such an event.

The letter for Colo. Biddle I would thank you for
sending to him — present me, & the family to Mrs.
Wolcott, — and be assured always of the esteem &
friendship of

Your affectionate

Go. WASHINGTON.
OLIVER WOLCOTT. JR. Esqr.

MOUNT VERNON 7th July 1797
Dear Sir,

Your letter of the ist, instant was brought to me by
the last post. —

The Journals of the ist. 2nd. & 3rd Sessions of the
first Congress, I have, & no later. — These are in folio —

2io LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

one volume of the Senate, and another of the House
of Representatives. — If no complete set can be had,
either in folio or octavo, it would be useless to obtain a
copy of what I now possess ; but if they are to be con-
tinued in the latter, and an entire set could be had of
that size, it would be preferred on account of uni-
formity.—

Please to accompany the copying press with the
account of cost, & the amt. shall be transmitted in
Banknotes. —

With great esteem & regard I remain — Dear Sir
Your Obedient & Affecte. Servt.
G. WASHINGTON.
COLO. TIMOTHY PICKERING. —

MOUNT VERNON, yth July, 1797.
Sir,

Your letter of the 3d instant from Richmond was
reed, by the last Post, and I embrace tomorrow's mail,
the first since its arrival, to thank you for your atten-
tion to my request; — to inform you that I shall be much
pleased to see you here between the 2oth & 27th
according to promise; — and that the scantling got for
the old shall either be accommodated to the new thrash-
ing machine, or other provided by the time above
mentioned: — and will have the Iron, and everything
else ready to avoid delay which cannot well happen as
I have half a dozn. Carpenters, & blacksmiths of my
own. —

Should anything happen (wch. I hope will not) to
prevent you from being here at the appointed time, be
so good as to inform. —

Yr. Most Obedt. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
To MR. WILLM. BOOKER.

OP GEORGE WASHINGTON 211

MOUNT VERNON, loth. July, 1797.
Dear Sir,

By the last Post I was honoured with your obser-
vations "on the disputes between the United States
and France" and for your polite attention in sending
them to me I pray you to accept my best acknowledg-
ments.—

Being on the point of celebrating Harvest home, I
must be allowed, as a Farmer, to make every other
matter yield to the accomplishment thereof, — that
being over, the Pamphlet, I am persuaded, will be read
with edification and pleasure by
Dear Sir

Your Obedt. Hble. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.

To ROBT. GOODLEE HARPER, Esq.

MOUNT VERNON nth July 1797.
Sir,

Inclosed you will receive a copy of the courses and
distances of my tract of 7276 acres of Land on the
Great Kanhawa, adjoining Poketallico Creek.

I am obliged to you for giving me the offer of 2000
acres of your land in that quarter, but my own want of
money induced me to sell two tracts of near 5000 acres
in the Counties of Washington and Fayette in the
State of Pennsylvania for much less than the real value
of them. — but

If you are going to the Kanhawa, and it should
fall readily in your way of do it, I would thank you for
information, when you return, of the situation, or rather
circumstances, under which my lands on that River
are, for I am totally in the dark respecting them.
I am-Sir-Yr. Obedt. Hble. Servt.

Go. WASHINGTON.
MR. JNO. W. BRONAUGH.

212 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

MOUNT VERNON, 15 July, 1797.
Sir,

Since my last to you, dated in Philadelphia the 6th.
of March, I have been honoured with yours and Lord
Hawkes joint favour of the 28th. of March 1796 in-
troductory of Doctr. Scandella; who gave me the
pleasure of his company in June last, and whom I
found a very sensible, and well informed man. —

I have also received your separate favours of the 2d.
of February and 29th. of March, in the present year:
The last accompanying your printed account of the
origin of the Board of Agriculture and its progress for
the three years after its establishment. — For your
kindness in forwarding of them, I pray you to accept
my best thanks. —

I will keep one copy of this work myself, and shall
read it, I am sure with pleasure, so soon as I have
passed through my harvest, which is now nearly fin-
ished ; — the other copies shall be put into such hands as
I conceive will turn them to the best account.

Your not having, in either of the letters acknow-
ledged above, mentioned the receipt of two from me,
dated the loth. & nth. of Deer. 1796, — the last a
private and very long one, fills my mind with appre-
hension of a miscarriage, although I do not see how it
should have happened, as they went with several other
letters under cover to Mr. King (our Minister in Lon-
don) who in a letter to me, dated the 6th. of February
following after giving information of what he had done
with my other letters, adds " and as soon as Sir John
Sinclair returns to town I will also deliver the letter ad-
dressed to him. " —

Was it not for this information I should, by this con-
veyance, have forwarded a duplicate. —

The result of my enquiries of Members of Congress
attending the December Session, varied so little from

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 213

the details I had the honour to give you concerning the
prices of land as in my private letter of the nth. of
December as to render a second edition unnecessary. —
The reduction however, in the price of our produce
since last year, (flour having fallen from fifteen to
Seven or eight dollars a barrel, and other articles in
that proportion) may occasion a fall in the price of
Lands. — A stagnation it has already produced — and
I have been told a reduction also, in some of the latter
sales. —

Our crop of Wheat this year from the best infor-
mation I have been able to obtain, will be found very
short, owing to three causes; — an uncommon drought
last autumn, — a severe winter with but little snow to
protect it, — and, which is a little more to be regretted, —
to what with us is denominated the Hessian fly which
has spread devastation, more or less in all quarters nor
has the latter Wheat escaped the rust. — The grain,
however, except where the Rust appeared before it was
hard is extremely fine. — We are equally unlucky in our
Oats, occasioned by a severe drought since the month of
April.

With sentiments of high esteem and regard, I have
the honor to be Sir,

Yr. Most Obedt. Hble. Servant
To SIR JOHN SINCLAIR G. WASHINGTON.

MOUNT VERNON, lyth. July, 1797.
Sir,

My Overseers at Union and Dogue run Farms are
endeavouring to play the same game they did last
year — that is to raise their wages ; but as I am fully re-
solved that to do it (especially as the price of produce is
reduced a hundred pr. ct.) I am induced to ask you —
as Clark who engaged with Mr. Craik is dead, & ex-
pectation from that quarter is at an end if you could

214 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

recommend a person whom you know would suit me,
for Union farm?

It is not impossible but that I may reduce the hands
at Union farm & place it and Dogue run Farm under
the same Over par, — but since in this case, I will not
give more than Sixty pounds wages, with the usual al-
lowances of Provisions. —

I shall insist upon a Dairies being attended to by the
Overseers wife and that Fowls shall be raised for my
Table: — And that nothing sold from the Farms for
their benefit, as the wages with the allowances of Pro-
visions is all the man & his wife have to expect.

I would thank you for acknowledging the receipt of
this letter by the Post as soon as it gets to hand, that I
may be certain of its safe arrival: — and as soon after
as possible, let me know (without absolutely engaging
any one) what dependence I could place on you getting
a good man ; with, or without a wife, but not too large
a family. — It is necessary I should hear from you soon
on this subject, as some are offering, & the season for
engaging good overseers is at hand. —

I hope to hear your health is restores to you, and
that your crops have been, and are likely to be good.
My crop of Wheat is as good as I had any reason to ex-
pect, but the Hassian fly began just before harvest to
cut it down. — Next year I expect their attack will be
formidable & severe. — Could we base dependence on
purchasing three or 4 hundred bushels of Rye in your
neighbourhood and at what price? —

I wish you & family well and am your friend
& Hble. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.

P. S. The drought is, and has been extremely se-
vere upon us. — Corn not half leg high. What will be
the outcome if cut?
To MR. WILLIAM PEARCE.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 215

MOUNT VERNON 2ist July 1797
Dear Sir,

I again take the liberty of requesting that the letters
herewith sent may accompany your dispatches to Mr.
King — who I also hope will have the goodness to excuse
the trouble I give him in this business, to insure the
safety of the dispatches.

I hope I shall not have occasion to give either of you
much more trouble in this way, as correspondencies of
this sort were not of my seeking, and I have no dis-
position to keep them up, except with Sir John Sinclair
(President of the National Board of Agriculture) on
Agricultural subjects. —

One of the last productions of this Gentleman I
transmit to you, with a request that if the Plan of
establishing a similar Board in these United States
should be re-entered upon at the next Session of Con-
gress, you would be kind enough to lay it before the
Committee which may be appointed for the purpose
of preparing that business. — I am always your Obedt.
& Affecte.

Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
COLO. TIMOTHY PICKERING.

MOUNT VERNON, 23d. July, 1797.
Dear Sir,

Receive my thanks for the information given in
your letter of the 3d. of July, and for the offer you
have obligingly made, of procuring for me, seed of the
Yellow bearded wheat. —

Influenced by the opinion which prevailed some
years since that that kind of Wheat would resist the
Hassian fly I then procured seed of it, & have kept my-
self in stock ever since, to make use of it upon a larger
scale, if occasion shd. render it necessary. And so

2i6 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

well persuaded as I am that the attack of this insect
will be severe next year, I shall reduce considerately,
my seeding of Wheat the coming Autumn ; and fill the
deficiency with Rye, principally. — Of Wheat, however,
I shall sow three kinds : — the early, or May wheat, as it
is called here, in a small proportion — and the residue of
the Yellow bearded, and a very fine white (also Wheat
which I obtained last Fall from the mountains.

Soon after I wrote you last the Rust seized my
Wheat, straw and a good deal injured the latter grain.
And a severe drought which we have laboured under
since April, until this day week, has rendered our crop
of Oats extremely short & rendered our meadows
scarcely worth cutting and till now, by a second fine
rain yesterday, left no little hope of making Indian
Corn. —

Present me & Mrs. Washington in affectionate terms
to Mrs. Peters, and be assured of the sincere esteem &
regards

Dear Sir

Your Obedient & Hble Servt

G. WASHINGTON.
To RICHARD PETERS, Esqr.

MOUNT VERNON 31 July 1797
Dear Sir,

I did not expect that I should have had occasion
to trouble you again relative to my administration of
the estate of Colo. Thomas Colvill. — But the Gentleman
who instituted the suit in the Chancery Court of this
State informs me that it is indispensable that an
affidavit of the Decree's having been published two
months successively in an English paper (as appears
prima facia to be required) should be returned — and
he wishes much to possess the same by the next term,
in March, early. —

OP GEORGE WASHINGTON 217

Taking it for granted that the Decree has been pub-
lished two months successively, I presume and hope
there can be no difficulty in having it testified by the
Editor of the paper in which it was inserted, and for-
warded to me by duplicate.

Excuse me, I pray you, for giving you this trouble,
and be assured always of the high esteem and great
regard of

Dear Sir — Your obliged & Obed. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
RUFUS KING, Esq.

MOUNT VERNON 7th August 1797
Sir,

I know nothing of the Bond of which you speak in
your letter of the 4th. instant. — If any such is in my
possession unsettled (of which by the bye) I do not
believe; it must, by frequent shif tings and removals,
have got so out of pla'ce as to render it impracticable
for me to find, as there is no such bond where it ought
to be, if I had it. — By my books, I find the account of
Mr. Kirk thus stated

Dr. To balance of yr acct. on my Mill Book £58. 7.1 o{
Cr. Settled by the assignment of a Bond of

Magee's 58. 7. io£

So far as my memory serves me, the Bond was inade-
quate to discharge the above bale, with interest due
thereon, — but as it was with difficulty I could get any
thing, and this was likely to be the whole, it was taken
& reed, as discharge, & the Bond given up: — for the
name of Magee is not to be found in my Book of %. — I
am Sir

Yr. Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
MR. ARCHD MCLEAN.

2i8 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

MOUNT VERNON, nth. Aug. 1797.
Dear Sir,

Your favours of the 2oth. ult. and 7th instant have
both been received — the last yesterday. —

If nothing happens to prevent it, I will dispatch a
light cart (not being disposed to lead the calf the whole
distance this warm weather for Mr. Lloyds present,
and two or three sheep from Mr. Gough if he has of the
sort I want, to dispose of. — The cart will leave this on
Monday, and probably be at Baltimore on Tuesday. —

In the meantime, if you should perchance see Mr.
Gough you would do me a favour to ask if he has of the
cape sheep kind one of which he would recommend for
trading not the broad tail sherp is the kind I want —
if he has a ram, and one or two ewe Lambs of his best I
would take, at his own price — If he has none my cart
would have no occasion to proceed there.

For your kind attention to my late request I pray
you to accept my thanks — and with great esteem &
regard — I am Dr. Sir

Yr. Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To NATHL. RAMSAY, Esq.

MOUNT VERNON, i3th. Aug., 1797.
Sir,

Having occasion to send a light carriage to Balti-
more, I have directed the person (Mr. Jno. Anderson of
my Manager) who has charge of it, to call upon you &
get a ram, and two ewe lambs of the Cape (broad tail)
sharp if you have any to dispose of, & such as you would
recommend for breeding. —

I want them on account of the mutton, and if the
ram was of the size & age to serve a score or more ewes
this season, it would be desirable. — If Mr. Anderson

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 219

succeeds in his application for these sheep, the cost of
them shall be paid to your order on demand.
I am Sir

Your Most Obedient and Very Hble. Servant,

G. WASHINGTON.
To HENRY D. GOUGH, Esq.

MOUNT VERNON, i3th Augt., 1797.
Dear Sir:

The bearer, Mr. Jno. Anderson, son of my Manager,
(with a light carriage) is sent for the calf from the
Eastern Shore, and the sheep mentioned in my last,
if Mr. Gough has them to spare. — If you have not seen
that Gentleman, and learnt that Anderson's going to
him would be fruitless, he is directed to proceed with
the letter of which he is possessed for Mr. Gough. —

I would thank you for causing the enclosed adver-
tisement to be inserted three times with the interval of
a week between each the expence of which I will pay
the Printer as soon as it is made known to me. — Mrs.
Washington is greatly distressed & fatigued from the
want of such a character as I am inviting. —

Does the Baltimore Telegraph come under the de-
scription of a Democratic or Repub. ? — or what is its
character & reputn.

With great esteem — I remain

Dr. Sir— Yr. Obedt. Servt.
To COLO. NATHANIEL RAMSEY. G. WASHINGTON.

MOUNT VERNON, i4th, Augt., 1797.
Sir,

Your favor of the i7th ulto. came safe, but a good
while after date. — For the sermons you had the good-
ness to send me 1 pray you to accept my thanks. — The
doctrine in them is sound, and does credit to the
author. —

220 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

It does, indeed, give me pleasure to have such sen-
timents as Mr. Curtis has expressed to you, transmit-
ted to me ; and it would render him and all his friends
an acceptable service if in your letters to him you would
endeavor to stimulate his pride — to impress upon his
mind the advantages to be derived from education and
the wishes of his friends that he may turn out a finished
scholar — and finally that this is no otherwise to be
accomplished than by close application and a contin-
uation at college. —

To overcome an indolent temper, — amusements at
present innocent but unprofitable and to excite him to
exert the talent which he possesses — constitute the
difficulty at present. — By & by, perhaps, bad example,
or the advice of dissipated young men, may increase it
considerably. — He has, I know, a friendship and re-
gard for you, and I am persuaded your opinion on these
topics would have a happy effect. — With esteem & re-
gard,

I am Sir
Your Most Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To The REVD. MR. ZACHARIAH LEWIS.

MOUNT VERNON i4th. August 1797
Dear Sir,

Not having anything to communicate of sufficient
moment to give you the trouble of receiving a letter
from me, I have delayed until now to acknowledge the
receipt of your favors of the loth. & 25th. Ulto. —

When I left Philadelphia, Mr. Lear and Mr. Dan-
dridge who remained, were directed to dispose of my
Household furniture (such parts I mean as were not
packed for a removal to this place) but from some
misapprehension the ornaments of my dining Table,
& some Plated bottle Coolers, were not disposed of as

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 221

was expected, but left in the care of Mr. McHenry
(Secretary of War) subject to future orders, when they
came away. —

I have now to request that you will receive these
from him, and if you can, to dispose of them (one of
the Coolers excepted, concerning which I will write
to you sometime hence) on the best terms you can. — It
is not probable that any one, unless the Presidt. or
any of the foreign Ministers should be so disposed,
would take the whole of course to retail them, would
be the most likely means of getting them off.

The articles you will receive, if I mistake not, will
consist of two four bottle coolers. — A Platteau in nine
pieces. — three large groups with glasses over them, two
vases, and twelve small single figures of Porcelain.

The Invoice of the Platteaux I am unable, at present,
to come at, but that of the figures is enclosed, as is the
one which contains the cost of the Coolers which were
never used — there being four, originally, and two
were quite sufficient to answer my purposes. — I do not
expect, notwithstanding they are new, that the one
offered for Sale will fetch the cost, and the other things,
I am certain will fall much below it, as they have not
only been used, but the Porcelain in some of its nicest
parts, is injured; — although I have not been able to
find the cost of the Platteaux, I have a memorandum
which informs me that they stand me in 486 Livres
in Paris exclusive of all the subsequent charges of
transportation from thence to Havre, original insur-
ance, duty to the United States.

I send the Invoices for the satisfaction of yourself,
and my wife may be inclined to purchase. — when this
purpose is answered they may be returned to me. —

Will you be so good as to ask Mr. Dobson if there
are no more Volumes of the American Edition of the
Encyclopaedia out: — the i6th. is the last I have re-

222 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

ceived, — and inform him at the same time that it is
my wish that my second sett (for I subscribed for two
setts to encourage his undertaking the work) be neatly
bound and sent to me, having given away the sett in
boards.

With esteem & regard — I am
Yr. Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
COLO. (CLEMENT) BIDDLE.

MOUNT VERNON i4th. Augt. 1797
Dear Sir,

It is a little out of time, to acknowledge the receipt
of your letter of the Qth. ulto. ; — but better late than
never: — and one object in doing it, is to pray you to
thank Mr. Bordly in my name, for the work he had
the goodness to send me, through the channel of your
conveyance . —

I presume the affair of Mr. Bloust will lye dormant
until the Committee of Congress make report at the
ensuing Session. — It will be to be regretted, much, if
this business is not probed to the bottom. That
Government may not sleep and be forgotten in the
meantime. I perceive Mr. Morse has opened a Battery
against it, but if his subsequent fire does no more in-
jury than the first, his artillery will recoil upon him-
self.

It had escaped me, until reminded by a re-perusal
of your first letters, that my Table ornaments & Coolers
were in your possession. Not for the value of the
thing, but as a token of my friendship, and as a remem-
brance of it, I ask you, Colonel Pickering & Mr. Wolcott
to accept each one of the two* bottle coolers — the other
articles I pray you to have carefully packed (the por-
celain in fine sawdust) and sent to Colo. Biddle, who

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 223

will be directed what to do with them — & will pay the
cost of packing.

What is the character of Porcupine's Gazette? — I
had thought when I left Philadelphia of ordering it to
be sent to me ; — then again I thought it best not to do it,
and altho' I should like to see both his & Bache's
The Aurora, the latter may, under all circumstances,
be the best decision, I mean not subscribing to either
of them. —

Mrs. Washington & Miss Custis thanks you for your
kind remembrance of them, and join with me in best
regards for Mrs. McHenry and yourself and family. —
With much truth I am

Your sincere friend and

affectionate Servant
G. WASHINGTON.

P. S. I shall rely on you to present the Coolers in
my name to the Gentlemen above named.

*I think there are three of them.
JAMES MCHENRY, Esqr.

MOUNT VERNON, 20 Augt., 1797.
Sir,

I have received your letter of the 22d. of May last,
from Belfast ; and wish it was in my power to give
you a more satisfactory statement of the deed. Mrs.
Savage's affairs in this country than I am about to
detail. —

True it is I was one of that unfortunate lady's trus-
tees,— and as true, that while I was in a situation to
render her any services I performed them (jointly with
the other trustee) as far, and as fast as the tedious
delays of our Courts would suffer justice to be admin-
istered.—

But from the year 1774 until the beginning of the
year 1784, it was not in my power to attend to hers, or

224 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

any private concern of my own being absent from this
State (Virginia) eight years of the time; during the
whole of which, and for sometime after, I believe there
was a suspension of all law, and all justice, except such
as proceeded from a sense of honour, the last of which
was no trait in the character of Doctr. Savage, husband
of the Lady, for of all ingrates he was the most ungrate-
ful.—

While alive, and the Courts were open, he had re-
course to all the chicanery of Law, and all the subter-
fuge of Lawyers to avoid paying her annuity, and since
his death, his Estate, if any, for there are various opin-
ions concerning it, and much contention arising there-
from, would render it uncanded were I not to add, es-
pecially as the heirs of his Security (also dead) have
pleaded the want of associates that it is my opinion,
strengthened by the Report of the Revd. Mr. Fairfax,
the other Trustee (who I believe has done all that cir-
cumstances would permit) that little is to be expected
from the prosecution of this business. —

The Suit is still going on, but without sufficient
means to support it from hence, and the circumstances
already mentioned it has too much the appearance of
throwing away good money after bad, to proceed. — So
far as I have an individual interest in the matter the
hope of a return of the money which I advanced Mrs.
Savage in her distress, when it was not in the power of
her Trustees to force payment of the annuity and other
expenditures in common with Mr. Fairfax has van-
ished long since. —

Having but lately returned home from a second
eight years absence, which with many interruptions
for public purposes between which has prevented my
taking any active share in this business for upwards of
twenty years, I have given it as my opinion to Mr.
Fairfax, that it would be best to offer a percentage, or

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 225

a good fee to the lawyers prosecuting the suit for the
claimants under — Mrs. Savage's Will, for all they can
recover on this account; and to receive nothing unless
they do, by way of stimula to their executions : what
effect this will have, or whether any, remains to be de-
cided.—

I am,
Your Most Obedt. Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.

To The REVD. NEWBURGH BURROUGHS.

MOUNT VERNON, 2oth. Augt., 1797.
Sir,

Your letter of the 2d. instt. came duly to hand, and I
wish with all my heart you would meet with such em-
ployment as your talents are suited to ; but if you can-
not obtain this in Philadelphia where your character is
best known, it is not likely you would succeed better
where you are less acquainted, and in places less pop-
ulous.—

There is none within my view, in this quarter, in any
of the lines to which you allude; and if you look for
anything in a public way you are already in the best
situation to make the application with a prospect of
success, as the President will, unquestionably, require
the best testimonials that can be obtained of your
fitness for Office and these can only be had from those
to whom you are known. — If you are pleased to send
one of your Poems to me Colo. Bidlad will conceive
pay, & forward it — to

Sir—
Yr. Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To MR. JNO. SEARSON

226 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

MOUNT VERNON, 23rd. Augt., 1797.
Sir,

I feel, sensibly, your kind & polite attention to me,
in the presentation of a bull calf of your improved
breed. — A very fine one indeed, it is, and merits my
particular thanks, which I pray you to accept. —

My stock of all sorts has been much neglected dur-
ing my eight years' residence from home, and will take
more time than in the usual course of nature will be
allowed me, to improve that much, but with the means
you have been so good as to furnish me, and other aids,
I shall, by proper attention put my black cattle into a
way of improvement. —

I am sorry to hear of the disease & consequent de-
generacy of your sheep. — Before I left home in the
Spring of 1789 I had improved that species of my stock
so much as to get 5 £ Ibs of Wool as the average of the
fleeces of my whole flock, — and at the last shearing
they did not yield me 2 \ Ibs. — By procuring (if I am
able,) good rams and giving the necessary attention, I
hope to get them up again for they are with me, as you
have declared them to be with you, that part of my
stock in which I most delight. — With esteem & regard
I have the honor to be

Your Most Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To HENRY D. GOUGH, Esqr.

MOUNT VERNON, ist. Sept., 1797.
Sir,.

Your letter of the 30 th of July has been received, but
not until within the last three days. — Your judgment
bond was long before sent to Mr. Ross to bring suit on.
What he has done in the matter I know not. —

To sue, cannot be more unpleasant and disagreeable
to you, than it is to me ; but as the want of money, and

THIRD WIFE OF TOBIAS LEAR

(Frances Dandridge Henley)

Also a niece of Martha Washington, and it was to her that the quilt,
shown in the other illustration, was given

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 227

a punctual payment of it, were the only motives to sell
my lands in the Counties of Fayette & Washington, so
a disappointment in these must defeat the objects
which I had in view ; and has been because of the pro-
secution to which I have resorted. —

You would not be unacquainted with the nature of
your contract for the land in Fayette County, nor with
the tenor of your Judgment Bond, given to fulfil it: —
of course, you must have known the amount of the
sums as they became due and that they were to be paid
at the Bank of Pennsylvania on a certain day, by In-
stalments ; — why then would you trust to others to do
your business; and by sending a little money by this,
and a little by that man who knew not what to do with
it when they got to Philadelphia, hazard the disappoint-
ments which followed? especially as that mode of pay-
ment was purposely guarded against in the contract,
as one from whence I could derive no substantial bene-
fit;— Whereas regular payments in the manner Colo.
Richie has made them would have given me (although
the land sold low) all the advantages I expected to de-
rive, from the sale of the lands.

Not knowing what Mr. Ross has done in the prem-
ises, I know not what further to say in reply to your
letter. — If the arrearages are paid up, with interest to
the time they became due, and the instalments reg-
ularly discharged afterwards, agreeably to the condi-
tions of your Bond, it is all I require and all I can wish ; —
for far is it, from my desire to embarrass, or injure
your character by a Law suit: — but if punctuality is
not observed on your part a suit for the reasons I have
already assigned will be the inevitable consequence. —
And I do now, in explicit terms declare that it may be
of no avail to see that such an one is to pay so much,
another so much, and so on — I shall have nothing to do
with any of them; because I shall expect each years

228 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Instalment will, by the time it becomes due be depos-
ited in the Bank of Pennsylvania, & made liable to my
draught. — This is a very simple mode, and what I shall
rightly exact. — I have no Agent in Philadelphia to
whom I would give the trouble of receiving money, nor
do I want partial sums lodged there. The amount of
the Instalmnt. must be known to you, and the times
of there becoming due. — My appropriations will cor-
respond therewith — but nothing short of the whole
sums will answer my purposes.
I am — Sir

Your Very Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To COLO. ISRAEL SHREVE

MOUNT VERNON, 2nd. Sept., 1797.
Sir,

Your letter of the 25th. ulto. came to hand by the
last Post. —

The ground Rent of the lot I have offered to lease in
Alexandria, is three dollars a foot, for what it measures
on each street. — This I must obtain as an annual Rent
on the lot will not be disposed of in that way. —
I am Sir,

Your Very Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To MR. JAMES HARRISON

MOUNT VERNON, 4th. Septr., 1797.
Sir,

I am going to take a liberty with you, for which I
rely more on your goodness, than on any excuse I can
make, for pardon.

A person of the name of Anthony Hensler, a Ger-
man (in the vicinity of Baltimore) has offered himself
to me as a Gardener. — He professes to understand that

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 229

business in all its branches, and well in each, represent-
ing himself moreover as a person of some property, and
very sober. — He adds that, his wife (about his own age)
is a very decent woman, and capable of the duties of
a Housekeeper. —

Such characters would be useful to me at this time ;
but I told Mr. Hensler that I would not employ stran-
gers, in either of those capacities, without ample tes-
timonials of their qualifications; and with respect to
himself that they must go to these points. — i. Skill in
the line of his profession — 2. Honesty — 3. Sobriety —
4. moral character, generally. — 5. orderly deport-
ment— and 6. industry, for although I usually employed
two or three negroes under my hired Gardener it
was not for the purpose of exempting the latter from
manual labour.

For information respecting these matters he has re-
ferred me to you; (who he says has a knowledge of
him from his having lived on some estate of yours.
On this ground then it is, I am induced to ask the fav-
our of you to give me the character of Mr. Hensler. —
It is not easy to conceive that his wife, to whom accord-
ing to his own account he has been married upward of
20 years can, from the station she has filled, without
having previously acquired it, be well qualified for
keeping such a house as mine but if she is neat in her
person, sensible, active, honest & spirited; and poss-
esses any knowledge in cookery, she might be very use-
ful to Mrs. Washington notwithstanding. —

I must again pray your excuse for the trouble this
application must give and request that I may as soon
as is convenient, hear from you on this subject.
I am Sir,

Your Most Obedt. Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To GENL. O' DONALD.

230 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

MOUNT VERNON in VIRGINIA

1 5th. Septr. 1797.
Sir,

Your letter of the i2th. of May has been received,
but not until within these few days: — to which you
will please to consider the following as a reply. —

Having been long in public life, and but little in this
State for the last five and twenty years; — and more-
over, having had but very little agency in the Admin-
istration of the deceased Colo. Thomas Colvil's affairs,
even antecedant thereto, no consideration short of being
the surviving Executor of his Will and the imperious
necessity occasioned thereby of bringing matters to a
close, could possibly have induced me to resume any
agency therein. —

Under these circumstances however, I have at all
times, of late, when it was in my power, used my best
endeavors to have the accounts closed, in order to
ascertain the surplus which that Gentleman had
bequeathed to the nearest relations of his mother, of
the names of Stott, Wills, Richardson and Catherine
Smith, of Durham; or their descendants: — and with
much difficulty and the aid of a Gentleman (Mr. Keith)
well acquainted with this sort of business, have ac-
complished it, as you see by having recourse to a
notification in the London Gazette of December last,
consequent of a decree of the high Court of Chancery
in this State.

The persons just named, or those claiming under
them, may, perhaps be disappointed at the smallness
of the sum — viz — nine hundred and thirty two pounds,
seventeen shillings and seven pence three farthings,
estimating dollars at Six shillings; which upon the
final settlement was found to be the surplusage of the
Testators estate after his Debts and specified legacies
were discharged; but if they will advert to the clause

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 231

of the Will tinder which they claim, & which was
published in England many years ago, there ought
not to be any surprise, as it there appears that the
Testator himself was in doubt whether there would be
any overplus estate.

The reason why that sum (now actually in the Bank
of Alexandria) was submitted to the decision and
disposition of the Chancellor was, because there had
been so many claims exhibited ; — so vague a nature ; —
and some of them accompanied by such unjust and
indecent insinuations, that I did not incline to inquire
into the merits of the respective claims, or to become
responsible for the distribution of the money. — All
those who have pretensions under the Will to a share
in the beforementioned sum, will now know where I
have sent their proofs ; & to receive an order for their
proportion of the Devise, having nothing more to do
in the matter myself. I am — Sir

Your Obedient Hble Servt.
MR. GEO. PEARSON. G. WASHINGTON.

MOUNT VERNON, iSthSepr. 1797.
Mr. Hensler,

I should have written to you at an earlier period, but
for the following reasons. —

First, because as I informed you, I had written to
Scotland for a complete gardener under indentures ; and
expected every day to learn the result of my appli-
cation.— I could not therefore, enter into engagements
with another without hazarding a disappointment toone
of the parties ,or a surplusage of men in that line, which
would have been useless, and inconvenient to myself —
and secondly, because I requested you not to forego any
other plan you might have in contemplation, while I re-
mained in the state of incertitude I had expressed to
you. —

LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

I have now, within a day or two, received a letter
from the Gentleman to whom I applied in Scotland,
to engage me a Gardener, promising that he wd.
endeavour to comply with my request, & hoped he
should succeed ; thus, the matter stands on uncertain
ground yet.

The presumption however is, that a few weeks will
decide whether I am to receive a Gardener from Scot-
land, or not: — If the latter, I will delay no time in
giving you notice thereof, and will accompany the
communication with the specific terms on which I
would employ you: — which, if you shd. be disengaged
at the time, will require no other answer than yea or
nay. —

I can only repeat now, what I said to you when you
were here last, that from the circumstances I am under,
& the uncertainty of the case, it is not my wish, or de-
sire that you should avoid any employment worthy of
your acceptance, in expectation of getting into my
service. — I remain,

Your friend &ca.

G. WASHINGTON.
To MR. ANTHONY HEUSLER.

MOUNT VERNON, 24th Sept., 1797.
Sir,

I have examined my land papers, but find I possess
none which relate to my purchase from Mr. Simon
Peason, all of them having been turned over, with
my transfer, to Mr. Lund Washington. —

I can form no idea of what Graften Kirt &ca. are to
exhibit in evidence on this occasion. — I sincerely be-
lieve that all the proceedings in, & docking of, the en-
tail of the land to which Mr. Thos. Pearson now sets up
a claim, were strictly conformable to law, and of more
validity than Graf ton's testimony; whose character;

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 233

if I have not an erroneous impression of it, is not quite
immaculate, but so much the reverse, as to be a ready
witness upon all occasions. — Nothing suggests itself
to my mind as ground on which a suit can be instituted,
unless it be alledged, that some of the Jurors were not
freeholders a thing I never have heard surmised, and
strange indeed to be proved, five & thirty years after
their verdict was given and (as I presume) admitted to
record. —

The Deeds, if well drawn, do, no doubt recite the
case, & names of the Jurors. — but admitting the fore-
going mistake in the Sheriff, would a Court of equity
suffer an innocent purchaser to sustain an injury from
the misconception or inattention of that Officer to his
duty? — I think not. —

You told me on Saturday that Simon Pearson left no
legitimate children, and that his Brother Thomas was
the lawful heir, but to whom has descended or rather
to whom bid Simon (if he left a will) bequeath his
Estate? — For if there be any irregularity in the process
of docking the Entail, and Thos. should, which I think
not at all likely, recover the land for which he is con-
tending, that estate must be resorted to: — I cannot
surely be in possession of Thomas, for in that case the
contest wd. be with himself, because he wd. have to
pay for all he obtained. —

When you know the result of the evidence you are
summoned to hear, I shd. be glad to be informed of
it — & with esteem

I am Sir

Yr. Very Hble. Servant
To MR. WILLIAM TRIPLETT. G. WASHINGTON.

MOUNT VERNON, 3d. Oct., 1797.
Sir,

I have already erected a threshing machine on Mr.

234 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Booker's plan, and was on the point of putting up one
or two more when I received a letter from a Gentleman
of my acquaintace informing me that you had invented
one which did more execution with less force. — This
has induced me to suspend the erection of those on
Mr. Booker's plan, until I can receive better inform-
ation relative to yours, and this is the cause of my
giving you the trouble of receiving this letter and
praying that you would be so obliging as to give it. —

The advantage which Mr. Booker has over the Scotch
machine (which I never saw) lyes, it is said, in being
less expensive, & less complex — particularly in the sub-
stitution of a band in place of cogs & rounds ; which, as
I have understood, with the expense thereof, is the
principal objection to the latter.

Not having heard whether you have obtained a
Patent, for the invention of yours, or mean to apply for
one, I would not have it understood that my application
for information into the principle on which yours act —
the power which works it — or the execution — is cal-
culated to deprive you of any benefit which might re-
sult in either case. —

The object of my enquiry is merely to know whether
yours (nothing being more interesting to the farmer)
is upon a simple plan & not easily put out of order in
the hands of ignorant negroes & careless overseers, —
whether cheap, & easily erected, what the execution, —
and with what force it is worked; together with the
manner of working it — and the house proper for its re-
ception.—

If in these particulars, on a fair comparison with Mr.
Booker's it obtains a preference, I shall certainly, as
I am about to provide conveniencies of this sort for
getting my erect yours instead of his ; and

whether built by my own people or others I am willing
to allow the Patent fee if it exists, or to stand upon the

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 235

same footing that others do to avail myself of the best
discovery in this or any other country to effect so val-
uable an end. — Your answer to these queries would
very much oblige me as ulterior measures depend upon
them & my want of machines to get my grain out in a
clean and expeditious mode I hope you will have the
goodness to excuse the liberty I have herein taken and
to believe that I am Sir

Your Most Hble. Servt.
To MR. THOMAS C. MARTIN. G. WASHINGTON.

MOUNT VERNON, 9 Oct., 1797.
Dear & Revd. Sir,

I have duly received your several letters of last
month, — but as an expression of my regret, in the con-
duct & behaviour of young Curtis would avail nothing
I shall not trouble you by the attempt.

I am persuaded that your conduct towards him has
been such as friendship inspired, and the duties of your
important truth required. — And as you have seen, in a
degree, what my solicitude advice & admonition have
been, he will have himself only to upbraid for any con-
sequences which may follow — and this perhaps comes
too late.

By Mr. La Fayette who is on his way to New York
to embark for France, I send you bank notes to the
amount of $100 in discharge of the balance of the acct.
transmitted (65) — the twenty advanced Mr. Curtis
when he left Princeton and any other unpaid bills which
may hereafter appear — And with thanks for your po-
lite attention to, & care of him while he was under your
superintendence, I remain with the highest esteem, re-
gard & respect,

Your Obedt. Hble. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
To The REVD. DOCTR. SAMUEL STANHOPE SMITH.

236 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

MOUNT VERNON, loth. Oct, 1797.
Dear Sir,

In answering your favor of the 28th. ulto. which
has been duly received I wish it was in my power to
give you more satisfactory information than you will
find, in this letter relative to the land near Suffolk.

Some years ago (before, if my memory serves me, I
was called to administer the Government of the U.
States) Mr. John Lewis, as Executor of his father, Colo.
Fielding Lewis. Will, informed me that the circum-
stances of that estate required that his father 's interest
in the lands wch. were bought by him, your father &
myself, lying as above, should be sold. — In reply, I
told him that any bargain for it that Doctr. Walker &
himself would make, I would abide by. — Since which
I have never heard a tittle from either on this subject —
nor do I know in whose possession, or under what cir-
cumstances the lands now are. — That they are not
sold I am inclined to believe, because the title papers
are still in my care, & no application has ever been
made for them. —

These from a cursory examination appear to be from

Acres

Josh. Jones'to G. W. T. W. & F. for 2 tracts 872

Jas. Wright" Do Do Do 50

Stepn. Wright Do Do Do 100

Kings Patent Do Do Do 188

Total 1210

I thank you for offering to sell me your interest in the
above lands, but I have no disposition to become the
purchaser, having lately sold my share of the Company
property in the Dismal Swamp, and formerly a tract
adjoining thereto, held by the deceased Colo. Lewis &
myself ; I shall be willing, however, at any time, to join

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 237

you & Mr. John Lewis in disposing of them to any other
purchaser. —

With esteem & regard I am Sir,

Your Most Obedt. Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To FRANCIS WALKER, Esqr.

MOUNT VERNON, i5th. Octr. 1797.
Dear Sir,

Your favour dated Elizabeth Town October — has
been duly received. — I am sorry that the state of your
health should deprive me of the pleasure of your com-
pany at this place. — and I regret still more that the
pain you feel from the wounds you have received
though glorious for your reputation is the occasion
of it.—

Whatever I can do as a private citizen (and in no
other capacity I can now act) consistently, with the
plan I have laid down for my future government, you
may freely command. — You will find, however, con-
trary as it may be to your expectation or wishes, that
all pecuniary matters must flow from the Legislature
and in a form which cannot be dispensed with — I may
add I am sure, that your claim upon the justice & feel-
ings of this country will meet with no delay — Nor do I
suppose that the loss of your certificate will be any im-
pediment.— Your rank and services in the American
Army are too well known to require that testimony of
your claim and the Books of the Treasury will show
that you have received nothing in discharge of it — or if
any part, to what amount. — With the highest esteem
& regard and respect.
I am, Dear Sir

Your Most Obedt. Hble. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
To GENERAL TADEUSZ KOSCIENSZKO.

238 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

MOUNT VERNON, i$th. Oct., 1797.
Dear Sir,

The Fish you had the goodness to send me arrived very
safe; and are excellent. — for your recollection of that
request of mine, and the trouble you were at to obtain
the best kind, I pray you to accept my grateful thanks. —

The money, as you desired, was paid to Captn. Silver,
to the amount of your memorandum of their cost, — and
they shall be stored, & dressed agreeably to the direc-
tions contained in your letter, forgiving which I feel
myself obliged.

No man wishes more devoutly than I that a stop was
put to the further effusion of blood ; — that harmony was
restored to all nations, — and that justice was done to
ours ; — but I must confess that my hope of seeing these
accomplished soon, exceed my expectation. — The af-
fairs of Europe seem to me to be in so purturbed a state
— and the views of the principal actors so discordant
that it is not easy on rational principles and fair cal-
culation to predict events. —

Nothing is wanting in ourselves to steer clear of the
vortex of misery, which has brought so many of the
nations of Europe to the brink of ruin in this desol-
ating war, but unanimity ; — and if a steady adherence
to the principles which have hitherto directed our
councils is unable to effect this, it will nevertheless I
hope avert the evils which, otherwise might be expec-
ted to flow from the persevering opposition which is
levelled at our government; and all those who stand
forward in support of it. — This is my creed, and I shall
believe in it until the contrary is verified, which Heaven
revert! Adieu, with very great esteem and regard I
remain Dear Sir

Your Most Obedient and very Hble. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
To The HONBLE. BENJAMIN GOODHUE.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 239

MOUNT VERNON, isth. Octr., 1797.
Dear Sir,

Your letters of the 28th ulto. has been received and
I sincerely regret the continuance of the malady which
afflicts the city of Philadelphia and the Seaport Towns
but hope the frosts which we have lately had & the
approaching cold, will eradicate the disorder. —

The season rendering the Room for which I wanted a
in a manner useless for the purpose it was designed I
have procured one in Alexandria. — although it is not
altogether such as I wanted, a very good shift can be
made with it, and as it supercedes the necessity of those
I had written to you for, I have now to request you will
decline sending them, or either of them. — The other
matters you will be so good as to send when an oppor-
tunity offers. — With esteem & regard

G. WASHINGTON.
To COLO. CLEMENT BIDDLE.

MOUNT VERNON 15 Octr, 1797.
Revd. Sir,

Your favour of the 2oth of Feb. has been received,
and I am indebted to you for many other unacknowl-
edged letters. — The trouble is, I soon found after,
entering upon the duties of my late public stations
that private correspondencies did not accord with
official duties: and as I determined to perform the
latter to the best of my abilities, I early relinquished
the former, when business was not the subject of them.—

It might be asked, why suffer the letter of the aoth.
of February (which is of the latter description) to
remain unacknowledged after I had, months past,
bid advice in my public walks? — The answer is easy;
— an eight years' absence from home (excepting
short occasional visits) had so deranged my private
affairs; — had so despoiled my buildings; — and in a

24o LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

word, had thrown my domestic concerns in to such
disorder, as at no period of my life have I been more
engaged than in the last six months, to recover &
put them into some tolerable train again.

Workmen in most countries, I believe, are necessary
plagues; — in this where entreaties as well as money
must be used to obtain their work, and keep them to
their duty, they baffle all calculation in the accom-
plishment of any plan, or repairs they are engaged in ;
— and require more attention to, & looking after, than
can well be conceived. — Numbers of these, of all
descriptions, having been employed by me ever since
I came home (to render my situation comfortable
the ensuing winter) has allowed me little leisure for
other occupations.

Rural employments while I am spared (which in
the natural course of things cannot be long) will now
take place of toil — responsibility — and the sollici-
tudes attending the walks of public life; — and with
vows for the peace, the happiness & prosperity of a
country in whose service the prime of my life hath
been spent, — and with best wishes for the tranquility
of all Nations, and all men, the scene will close ; grateful
to that Providence which has directed my steps, &
shielded me in the various changes & chances through
which I have passed, from my youth to the present
moment.

I scarcely know what you allude to in your letter
of the 2oth of Feby. when you say " I observed in the
Philadelphia papers mention made of a volume of
your epistles, domestic, confidential & official" unkss
it be the spurious letters which issued from a certain
Voss in New York during the War, with a view to
destroy the confidence which the army and community
might have had in my political principles ; — and which
have lately been republished with greater avidity &

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 241

perseverance than ever, by Mr. Vache, to answer the
same nefarious purpose with the letters.

I supposed every attack that was made upon my
Executive conduct (the one just mentioned among the
sett) to pass unnoticed while I remained in public
office; well knowing that if the general tenor of it
would not stand the test of investigation, a newspaper
vindication would be of little avail. — But as immense
pains has been taken by this said Mr. Vache, who is
no more than the agent or tool of those who are en-
deavoring to destroy the confidence of the people
in the officers of Government (chosen by themselves)
to dessiminate those counterfait letters, I conceived
it a piece of justice due to my own character, and to
Posterity, to disavow them in explicit terms; — and
this I did in a letter directed to the Secretary of State
to be filed in his office the day on which I closed my
administration. — This letter has since been published
in the Gazette by the head of that Department: —

With respect to your own request, I can say nothing,
so many things are continually given to the public
of which I have no previous knowledge — nor time
indeed to inspect them if I had been therewith in-
formed— that I may mistake the meaning of it. — The
late Secretary of State (now Vice-President) per-
mitted a Mr. Levy — my consent being first obtained —
to take copies under his inspection of the letters I had
written to Congress; which letters have since been
published and are I presume genuine, and must be
those which you refer to. — But as they are the work
of another, who is now in England on this business,
I cannot suppose that you had it in contemplation to
derive a benefit from his labours. — I shall only add
therefore that discretion in matters of this sort must
be your guide without a Yea or nay from me. —

For Politics I shall refer you to the Gazette of this

242 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

country, with which I presume you are acquainted, &
with respect to other matters, I have nothing wch.
would be entertaining, or worth narrating. — Mrs.
Washington too unites with me in best wishes for the
health & happiness of yourself and Mrs. Gordon —
and I am with esteem & respect — Revd. Sir

Your Most Obedt. & very Hble. Servt.
G. WASHINGTON.
THE REVD. DOCTR. (WILLIAM) GORDON.

MOUNT VERNON, i6th. Oct., 1797.
Dear Sir,

Your favour of the 2d. instt. came duly to hand. —
For the persual of the enclosure I thank you. It is
returned.

We heard with much concern, but long after the
thing had happened, of the accident which befel your
son. — We hope he is perfectly recovered from the fall,
and you from your billious attack. —

Having no news to entertain you with, and could
only fill a letter with the perplexities I experience daily
from workmen, and other occurrences of little moment
to any besides myself, I shall conclude this letter with
best respects in which Mrs. Washington and Milly
Custis unite to Mrs. McHenry and yourself and with
assurances of being

Dear Sir

Your Affecte. friend

G. WASHINGTON.
To JAMES MCHENRY, Esq.

MOUNT VERNON, 26th Oct., 1797.
Sir,

Since you left this, yesterday I have conversed with
my Manager on the subject of flour, according to your
desire. —

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 243

The result is, that on Tuesday next, provided im-
mediate notice is given, he could have fifty barrels of
Superfine at Alexandria. — It would, however, em-
ployed as my Boats are in getting materials together
for my Distillery, be vastly more convenient for me to
deliver it to a vassal at my mill. —

If you to be the above mentioned flour I shall expect
eight dollars and a half per barrel for it.
I am — Sir

Your Obedt. Hble. Servt.
To MR. BARRY. G. WASHINGTON.

MOUNT VERNON, 27th Octr., 1797.
Sir,

The enclosed letter from Mr. Brooks your brother, to
Mr. Anderson my Manager (who were acquainted) is the
best apology I can offer for giving you the trouble of re-
ceiving one from me. —

It is the wish of Mrs. Washington that Mrs. Forbes,
would without delay, repair to this place with her
clothes &ca. where (if she has been an acceptable and
competent housekeeper to you, while you filled the
chair of Government of this State) there can be little
doubt of her answering our purposes and will be re-
tained on the terms mentioned in my advertisement
which was inserted in a Richmond Paper. —

If Mrs. Forbes comes in the stage, which I presume
will be the case, she might stop at the Widon Lund
Washington's (close on the Road between Colchester &
Alexandria) who will either send her hither, or let us
know that she is there. —

A previous knowledge of the characters, one has to
do with, being of some importance, you would do me a
favour in giving (and it might be confidentially if you
prefer it) that of Mrs. Forbes. — Besides care ; & a know-
ledge of the duties of the station — one who will see to

244 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

the execution, answer as direct the measures of the
Servants is indispensable in my family One too who has
spirit to enforce her orders — on doing which she will
have every proper support.

I pray you to excuse the liberty I have taken in
making this request.

I am Sir,
Your Most Obedt. and Very Hble. Servant,

G. WASHINGTON.
To ROBT. BROOKE, Esqr.

MOUNT VERNON, 3oth Oct., 1797.
Dear Sir,

Your favors of the 3oth of August and 8th. of Septem-
ber have remained unacknowledged, because I had
nothing to communicate that could compensate for the
loss of a moment of your time, which I know is too
much occupied in matters of business to be interrupted
by unimportant letters.

Having received the enclosed letter by the Ganges,
in the twilight, and attending to the first part of the su-
perscription only, I broke the seal before I discovered
that it was of a public nature. And the direction of the
Spanish letter being somewhat equivocal, I send it also ;
as well, for that reason as because I could not read it
after it was opened, — both to be disposed as you shall
see fit. —

I thank you for sending me your answer to the very
improper letter of Mr. de Grujo, who merited less re-
spectful treatment. — The copying press came safe, but
does not work well ; whether for want of more springs
I am unable to determine. — Having a small one (which
used to be getting out of order frequently, but at pres-
ent does tolerably well) I do not use it at all. — Should
the smaller one fail, I will send the other, and ask you,
to have its defects rectified.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 245

From the last Philadelphia Reports respecting the
Yellow fever, it is to be hoped that that dreadful ma-
lady has ceased, and the distressed Inhabitant are re-
turning to their long, forsaken homes. — I wish it de-
voutly, on public as well as private considerations,
for an equivocal state of that disorder would place the
President in an embarrassing situation.

With very great esteem & regard
I remain — Dear Sir,

Yr. Obedt. & Affect.

G. Washington.
To COLO. TIMOTHY PICKERING.

MOUNT VERNON 30th Oct 1797
Sir,

Your letter of the 2ist Instt. has been duly received,
but ignorant as I am of the motive which has induced
you to send me an extract of the Law of 1780 relative
to recruits, for the army, I know not what reply to
make.

Matters of that sort, I never had anything to do
with, as Commander in Chief of the American Army ; —
and never having speculated in any Soldiers certificate,
or Rights of any kind or nature whatsoever, I am,
perhaps, as little competent to give an opinion thereon
(if I understood your meaning) as any man in the
United States. —

I am Sir

Your very Hble Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
MR. JACOB VALENTINE.

MOUNT VERNON, 3 Nov., 1797.
Sir,

I shall preface this letter in answer to yours of yes-
terday, with a declaration as sincere as it is solemn, —

246 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

and that is, that if it was in my power, I would take no
advantage of you in the proposed exchange of Lands ; —
nor would I wish you to make a bargain with me that
either you yourself or your friends (such I mean as are
competent judges) should hereafter say was disadvan-
tageous on your part: — for be assured I should derive
no pleasure from a contract of which you might have
just cause to complain.

Having made this declaration, it remains to be added,
that both of us may err in the comparative value of our
respective lands. — You, perhaps, proceed upon what
you conceive to be the present selling price of such lands
as yours are, in this country, — which, abstractedly is
fair ; but if I mistake not, lands here are not only at a
stand, but on the decline ; while on the other hand, I go
on a thorough conviction in my own mind, that such as
I offer in exchange and which in some instances / know,
and in all believe are of the first rate, will increase. —
I form this opinion from analogous circumstances; —
for since I have been an actor for myself, Frederick and
Berkeley courtier were deemed much more remote &
in fact out of the inhabited world — that the Kanhawa
is now : — and land, which I then bought in the former
at five pounds per hundred acres, and the highest (on
account of small improvements) at twenty five pound,
per hundd. I could now sell, very readily at five pounds
an acre. — But this is digressing from the point, and I
will return to it again, after making one more obser-
vation which in my opinion is literally true & impor-
tant— namely — that it is not the number of acres you
receive in exchange for your land, that is to render that
exchange valuable, — there are a great many local con-
siderations which must contribute to this. — I aver,
most seriously, that I wd. not give my tract of 10990
acres on the Kanhawa for 50,000 acres back of it, &
adjoining thereto, nor for any 50,000 acres of the

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 247

common land of the country, which I have seen, back
from the water, & in one body. — And I have no doubt
but that the land immediately back of mine might now
be bought for half a dollar or less pr. which and on acct.
of the extensive range that cannot for series of years be
interrupted, renders these bottoms so extremely val-
uable.—

In offering you three of my tracts on the Kanhawa,
containing together 12,276 acres for yoir sugar land
tracts entire, I conceived I was by no means deficient
in proposing an equivalent, especially as these three
tracts would have given you a boundary on the Rivers
of near 25 miles, of the richest low ground in that ctry.

It is true and so I informed you that I had never been
on either of these tracts and have only the Surveyors
report and other information on which to form my
opinion of the quality of the land. — They may be less,
or they may be more valuable than the lower tract for
ought I know to the contrary. Two reasons however,
induced me to reserve the latter. — ist a knowledge of
the tract from my own inspection of it — because it was
the lowest on that River and not more than 3 miles
from Mount Pleasant. — A place which must, as soon as
tranquillity is perfectly restored be of considerable im-
portance from its situation at the junction of two im-
portant Rivers running in different directions through
so large and fertile a tract of country. —

This letter is written not with a view to exculpate
myself from any suspicion which might arise of my not
meaning to offer you an equivalent for your land, that
from any expectation I entertain of our coming to a
bargain, for it can hardly be supposed that I would al-
low the whole of my lands to be picked, whilst the most
valuable part of yours (or your sons) is reserved. — If
however, upon reconsidering the matter you should be
disposed to let the island go with, and become part of

248 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

the exchanged lands, I will, on my part (as you have
expressed a wish to make an exchange) consent to part
with my lower tract on the Kanhawa also ; and if there
is any likelihood of our agreeing on a just proposition of
quantity and value of my land for yours, I would on
some early day which you may name (before the weath-
er gets cold) ride up with you and your son (for I shd.
like that he should be perfectly satisfied before hand
with whatever is done) and look at your Londoun
lands having at present not the least knowledge of the
quality of them, neither from investigation or infor-
mation, and because — which I frankly declare to you
previously that it is not a trifling consideration that
wd. induce me to part with my lower tract on the
Kanhawa with the situation, local advantages, quality
and value of which I have formed an opinion — not
from information but from my own accurate view —
not from information — but from my own accurate view,
having been on it three or four days and hunted from
one end to the other of the bottom.

Your answer to this letter will at once decide whether
there be any prospect of our bargaining, or not and I
should thank you for giving it to me as soon as it is
convenient.

I am Sir

Your Most Obedt. Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To DANL. MCCARTY.

MOUNT VERNON, 6th. Novr., 1797.
Dear Sir,

Since writing to you a few days ago I have been
favoured with your letters of the 26th. and 3oth. Ulto. —

If you should have occasion to write to Mr. Parish of
Hamburg, you would oblige me by thanking him in my
behalf, for his very polite & friendly offer of sending me

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 249

anything I might have occasion for from that place. —
It would be more formal than necessary, to introduce
Mr. Bucknall Orchardist to the Philosophical Society
of Philadelphia otherwise than through you. — If then
you will be so good as to relate the manner in which it
came, & present it with my best respects to that body,
I will thank you. — With very great esteem & regard,
I am — Dear Sir

Your Obedt. Hble. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
COLO. TIMOTHY PICKERING.

MOUNT VERNON, 6th. Nov., 1797.
Dear Sir,

Your favour of the 2d. ulto. with its enclosure came
duly to hand, and I feel myself very much obliged by
the favorable footing on which you have placed mat-
ters with Colo. Shreve. — These are perfectly satis-
factory to me and of which I should have informed you
sooner had I not supposed that the most certain though
perhaps not the quickest way of making it known to
you would be to lodge my letter in Philadelphia against
your arrival there. — This I am about to do in the hands
of Colo. Pickering. — Whatever mode, under the de-
rangements occasioned by the sore calamity which has
afflicted that City, you shall find most convenient to
yourself, will be agreeable to me, for depositing the
same in the Bank of Pennsylvania which has been paid
you by Colo. Shreve on my acct. but it might not be
amiss to add that the $500 have been paid into that
Bank for my use, no advice of it has been given to me.

I am perfectly convinced that your observations and
.opinion with respect to the most advantageous mode —
to wit — laying off my lands on the Ohio into lots of
about 200 acres is correct, and the best way to make the
most of them. — The reasons which have weighed against

250 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

it hitherto with me, are first it is troublesome, sd,
may be tedious in its operation and 3d. my object being
to convert the Land aggregately into money, on some
kind of stock that I might derive a convenience & bene-
fit from the interest during the short stay which from
the natural course of things I have to remain here, the
end would not be answered in a retail way without, in a
manner, sinking the capital. — But as you have been so
good as to mention this mode will you permit me to ask
what you think what the land would sell for by the acre
divided in the manner you suggest — and whatever
there is within your view, any person in whom con-
fidence could be placed as an Agent to manage this
business, who has sense and inclination to undertake it
for an adequate compensation?

I wish you an agreeable Session and perfect unan-
imity in all great questions which involve the dignity,
honor and interest of our Country. — With very sincere
esteem & regard,

I am — Dear Sir
Your Obedient and Very Hble. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
To the HONBLE. JAMES ROSS.

MOUNT VERNON, i3th. Nov., 1797.
Dear Sir,

The running off of my cook, has been a most incon-
venient thing to this family ; and what renders it more
disagreeable, is, that I had resolved never to become
the master of another slave by purchase, but this resol-
ution I fear I must break. —

I have endeavoured to hire, black or white, but am
not yet supplied. — A few days ago having occasion to
write to Mr. Bushrod Washington on other matters, I
asked if one could be had in Richmond, — the following
is his answer. —

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 251

Mr. Brooke (late Governor) informs me that he had a
very excellent cook, with no other fault than a fondness
for liquor (which often afforded him too many oppor-
tunities of indulging) who is now in Fredericksburg,
and is to be sold. — I shall write to the Gentleman who
has him not to sell him till he hears from you. Should
you under this character wish to buy, or hire him, please
address a letter to Mr. George Murray of that place. —
He cooked for Mr. Brooke " while he was in the Govern-
ment. "

Let me ask you now, to see both Mr. Murray & the
man himself and if upon conversing fully with the latter
you should be of opinion (from the account he gives of
himself) that he is a good cook, and would answer my
purposes then discover the lowest terms on which he
could be had by purchase or on hire ; & inform me of
the result by the first Post so that an answer shall be
immediately given. —

I should like to know the age and as far as you are
enabled to ascertain it, the temper & looks of the man
described. — whether he has a wife, and expects to
have her along with him — and in that case, what
children they have with her age & occupation. — By the
time I can receive an answer from you I expect Mrs.
Forbes who was Genl. Brooks housekeeper will be here
as my housekeeper ; and from her own knowledge of the
person, and your account I shall be enabled to determine
what answer to give. — Our loves to Mrs. Lewis &ca.
I am — Your affecte. Uncle

G. WASHINGTON.
To MAJR. GEORGE LEWIS.

MOUNT VERNON, 28th. Nov., 1797.
Dear Sir,

I have lately received a letter from a Mr. Small of
Philadelphia, informing me that the coach I used in the

252 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

city was yet unsold, — that it was accumulating ex-
pence, — and not more than two hundred dollars had
been offered for it, when, according to his acct. $300
was the value fixed thereon.

I intended to have sent his letter to you, but it has
been mislaid, or lost — I shall beg the favour of you,
however, to sell, or cause it to be sold, for whatever it
will fetch. — Who limited the price to $300 I know not,
but took it for granted that it had been disposed of
many a day ago. — Receive, and place the proceeds to
the credit of

Dear Sir

Your Obedient Hble. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
To COLO. CLEMENT BIDDLE.

MOUNT VERNON, 26th Feby., 1798.
Dear Sir,

When you were here last, I informed you that from
the reputation which the College at Annapolis had, I
was most inclined under every view I could take of the
case, to send Washington to that Seminary ; and, ac-
cordingly, had requested Mr. George Carteret (who
informed me that he was going to that city) to converse
with the President of the College on the subject &
make other enquiries and to acquaint me with the
result. —

Enclosed I transmit his letter. — It wd. have been
more pleasing, and much to have been desired to have
got Washington 'fixed in the house with Mr. McDow-
ell ; but this it seems cannot be, for reasons assigned by
that Gentleman. — I think, notwithstanding, that he
had best go there, as, from all accounts there is less of
that class of people which are baneful to youth, in that
City, than in any other, from the nature of its com-
position, and strictness of its Police — according to Mr.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 253

Calvert's account, — and for another reason also seeing
(as he confesses he has) what effect his misconduct
has had upon his friends Pride, when classed with other
students will operate in addition thereto, a more pow-
erful stimulus, than it would in lonely, solitary reading
& studies, by himself.

If he was to get to Alexandria, his studies must be
conducted at the Academy, — or in his own chamber. —
The first, after coming from a large & celebrated college
he would consider as degrading & in the other case (be-
ing left alone) he would attend very little to them while
Mr. Moffat was discharging the trust reposed in him at
the Academy. — To expect after devoting the appro-
priate hours to his school boys that he wd. apply much
of the residue to Washington is what he would not per-
form, strictly, was he to promise it. — And besides, from
the information I have been enabled to obtain, the
young People (those keeper clerks chiefly) are idle, dis-
sipated and extravagant. — Acquaintances with some of
these would be soon formed, and the consequences not
difficult to predict. — From good authority I am in-
formed that many of them spend in Taverns more than
their wages amount to. — The deficiency must be sup-
plied in some way or another. —

With respect to his (Washington's) remaining at this
place, I am perfectly satisfied from the experience of
the last few months that he has been here, that even
under the constant care of a more illumined Preceptor
than I am sure there is the least chance of obtaining,
he would progress very little, and as the case now is,
that he will forget what he does know, so inert is his
mind. —

He takes Alexandria in his way to Hope Park to pro-
vide himself with such clothes as would be necessary. —
At what time they must be ready otherwise than by
promise, The suggestion of your accompanying Wash-

254 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

ington to Annapolis is contained in Mr. Cal vert's letter
& coincides perfectly with my ideas of the utility of the
measure. — If it be convenient & agreeable to you to
undertake the journey, you shall be informed when he
is ready to commence it, or, if there could be any depen-
dence upon the Tayler he could inform you himself. —
If you cannot go, I will ask Mr. Lear to do it, but this
will not answer as well — in either case the expense will
be mine. —

Mrs. Washington has a very bad cold, the rest of the
family at home as as usual. — Best wishes to Mrs.
Stuart and all with you.

I am Dr. Sir

Your Obedt. & Affecte.
To DAVID STUART, Esqr. G. WASHINGTON.

MOUNT VERNON, lyth. Mar., 1798.
Sir,

Your letter of the 28th. Ulto. came safe but was
some time longer than might have been expected, on
its way. —

As I think your charge for the prescription & applica-
tion to Christopher (my servant) who was supposed to
be bitten by a mad dog, is a very reasonable one, I send
you enclosed a five dollar bank note of Alexandria
(having no other paper money by me) without enquir-
ing whether your not having received four dollars be-
fore, proceeded from the neglect of the Servant, or any
other person. —

Christopher continues to do well, & I believe is now
free from apprehension of any bad consequences from
the bite. — I shall beg to be informed of your receipt of
this letter, being unwilling that you should go unpaid. —
I am Sir*

Your Very Hble. Servant,
To DOCTR. STORY. G. WASHINGTON.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 255

MOUNT VERNON, 22d. June, 1798.
Dear Sir,

I am not disposed to withdraw your attention from
more important matters ; — or to be troublesome in any
degree; — or to press my correspondence upon you. —
But not having even heard whether my letter of which
the enclosed is taken, from a press copy ever reached
your hands, am induced to make the enquiry. —

I wish also to know what has been done with a letter
of mine, put under cover to you (early in March last)
to be forwarded, or suppressed at your discretion, to a
Mr. John Parkes who exhibited Proposals to the Pub-
lic, for compiling a complete edition of all the Journals
of Congress, from the earliest period of them down to
the present day? — With respect — I am — Dear Sir
Your Obedient Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
To JAMES MCHENRY.

MOUNT VERNON i6th July 1798
Sir,

I have received your letter of the i2th. Instant,
and thank you for your offer of becoming one of my
Aids-de-Camp.

I have consented to accept the appointment to
which my country has been pleased to call me, with
the reservation not to quit my private walks until
the army is in a situation to require my presence, or
it becomes indispensable by the urgency of circum-
stances.—

Until one, or the other of these periods shall have
arrived, I shall make no actual appointment of my
Aids; — and as circumstances and a variety of con-
siderations are required in regulating my choice, I
must remain perfectly free and unengaged till then
unless it should otherwise happen in a public interest.

256 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

Intoxicated and lost as the French seem to
our principle of Justice, I yet hope that they will
pause before they proceed further. — That they have
been misled — and have made calculations on false
ground, that equivocal decorating of the People on
whose support their plan has been formed) to support
Independance of the Government of their having
at every hazard sufficiently evinced. — When to this
happy circumstance, the issue then is added, & fully
made known to them I can hardly conceive (although
I think them capable of any thing that is unjust and
dishonourable) that they will attempt a serious In-
vasion of this Country. — At the same time the highest
possible obligation rests upon the Country to be
prepared for the events as they may affect our means
to avert the evil. — With esteem

I am Sir — Your most Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
MR. JAS. MARSHALL.

MOUNT VERNON, sth Aug., 1798.
My dear Sir,

My present want of a riding horse is great, — but if
I should be called to the field it will be much greater.

As I am much out of the way of seeing, or hearing of
such as would answer my purposes — especially in the
latter case — and know that you are a good judge of
the parts, and general symmetry of a horse of figure.
You would do me a favour if such a one as hits your own
taste should fall in your way to buy him for me. — The
cost to be paid on delivery. —

In age, I should not be willing to exceed Seven years —
eight at most — younger, but not under four last Spring
would be better. — For colour, I will not contend, but
would prefer a perfect white, — a dapple grey — a deep
bay — a chestnut — a black in the order they are men-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 257

tioned. — The size & strength must be equal to my
weight, which without the sa4dle may be estimated at
210 Ibs. — Being long legged, or tall would be no re-
commendation, as it adds nothing to strength, but a
good deal to the convenience in mounting. — '

Under my circumstances, I cannot limit you in sum ;
but shall add that I never expected to be Master of a
riding horse that was almost more than four hundred
dollars. —

As I have no idea that Mr. David Randolph (being on a
journey) would would have parted with the horse he
thought might have suited me, I took but little notice
of him ; which I have been sorry for since and he is not
within reach now. I asked him however what such a
horse would cost, he answered four hundred dollars —
that fine horses were scarce & dear. — Remember us
in affectionate terms to Mrs. Fitzhugh & the rest of
your family, and believe me to be as I sincerely am —
always

Yours

G. WASHINGTON.
To WILLM. FITZHUGH. Esq.

MOUNT VERNON 2Sth Jany. 1799
Dear Sir,

Your letters of the nth. of May, i6th. of July, 2oth.
of August, and loth, of October are all before me. —
The receipt of the two first I have acknowledged; —
but as my letters wch travel across the Atlantic have
not been fortunate in getting to their address, these
may have shared the usual fate. — Being of little
importance, however, no duplicate was sent nor copy
taken : — Nor is it at all material now, whether they
got to hand or not. —

Your letter of the 2oth. of August found me in Phila-
delphia, whither I had gone at the request of the Secre-

258 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

tary of War, to aid in the formation of the New Corps,
about to be raised ; and in some other Military arrange-
ments which were necessary, at that time, to be ad-
justed : — and coming in the nick of time, your then wish
to engage in a Military career was attended to, and you
were accordingly, appointed to the Command of an
Infantry Company, in the first Regiment of Virginia,
to be Commanded by Colo. Thomas Parker of Freder-
ick, which has been rendered valid by the President
and Senate since. —

The business which carried me to Philadelphia,
detained me in that City from the loth, of Novr. until
the 1 4th. of Deer., and occasioned an absence from
home of near Seven weeks, during which time I was
so much occupied as not to be able to give you advice
of this occurrence; and soon after my return, your
letter of the loth, of October came to hand informing
me of your having been received into the family of Mr.
King, as his Secretary. —

You have now, I presume the option of remaining
there, or of accepting the Commission before mentioned.
— In the choice of which you have your own inclination,
& some other considerations to consult. — Both are at-
tended with uncertainties, but which most so, is not
easy to decide. — The augmented Corps, in which you are
appointed, are by law, to exist no longer than the dis-
pute with France shall continue; but how long this
will be, will require more wisdom than I possess to fore-
tell;— and you know, without information from me,
what a bugbear a standing army (as a few Regiments
with us are called, though liable to be disbanded at
any moment, by withholding the appropriation for yr.
support) is, in the eyes of all those who are continually
raising Spectres & Hobgoblins to aff lighten themselves,
and alarm the People : — and how certain it is that ours
(with their consent) will not exist a momt. longer than

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 259

it can be avoided by their endeavors; whether the
cause which gave rise to it ceases, or not. Of the pros-
pect before you in the Diplomatic line, you are as com-
petent to judge of it as I am; — But, as it is probable
the Commission will be held for you, until your determi-
nation is known, no time should be lost in announcing
it to me, or at the War office.

Lawrence Lewis is appointed a Capt. in the Corps of
light Dragoons; but before he enters the Camp of
Mars, he is to engage in that of Venus with Nellie Custis
on 22nd. of next month; they having, while I was in
Philadelphia, without my having the smallest sus-
picion that such an affair was in agitation, formed their
Contract for this purpose — Washington Craik is ap-
pointed a Lieutenant in the said Corps, & Washington
Custis is made Cornet in Lewis's Troop; for it was
found impracticable to keep him longer at College with
any prospect of advantage; so great was his aversion
to study; tho' adicted to no extra vagent or vicious
habits, — but from mere indolence, & a deriliction to
exercise the powers of his mind, and those talents with
which nature had blessed him: — The Army generally
will be very respectably officered : —

The General Assembly of this State is in Command,
by the account of its proceedings scanning into every
kind of opposition to the measures of the General
government, and on the extra vagent Resolutions which
folly can devise ; — in what they will issue, it is difficult
'to say. —

I am sorry to inform you that your brother John
Dandridge is no more. He paid the debt of Nature a
few days since ; after having (as we have been informed)
been in bad health for some time.

Your Aunt, who is as well as usual, and Nelly Custis
(Washington, however, is from home) unite with me
in every good wish for you; and with thanks for your

26o LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

offer of rendering me any services in your power, I
remain

Dr Sir — Your Affece. friend & Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.

Present me respectfully to Mr. and Mrs. King.
BARTHW. DANDRIDGE, Esqr.

MOUNT VERNON, 6 Feby., 1799.
My dear Sir,

By the ship Nancy from London, just arrived at Al-
exandria I have received four copies of the Prints of
the deaths of Montgomery & Warren (the number of
sets I presume I subscribed for) sent me by your
brother. —

It is my wishes to make him a remittance agreeable
to the terms of the subscription but having taken no
copy of it not being able to recollect what is to pay,
must be my apology for troubling you with this letter —
presuming that the original Paper or a copy thereof
might have been left with you, and moreover, that you
may be empowered to receive from the subscribers in
the United States the amount of their subscriptions, in
which case, upon receiving the advice, I shall, instead
of making the remittance of mine to London, transmit
it to you. —

Whether anything was to have been paid in advance,
& whether in that case I paid mine is more than I can
decide without a resort for the letter to my Papers from
Philadelphia which are yet to be unpacked, and ar-
ranged.

By a paper accompanying the Prints of Montgom-
ery & Warren the other part of the original design is
suspended, on account of the peculiarity of the times.

As I shall not write Brothr. Trumball until I hear
from you, the sooner you can make it convenient to give

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 261

me the information herein required, the more agreeable
it will be. —

I enquire frequently after you, & with pleasure hear
always that you enjoy good health. — Mrs. Washing-
ton who is as well as usual, & Molly Custis who on my
birthday (the 226. instant) will change her name to
that of Lewis) a nephew of mine, and brother to those
who lived with me in New York & Philadelphia unite in
best wishes & respectful compliments to Mrs. Trum-
ball & yourself with

My dear Sir

Yr. Most Obedt. & Affecte. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To His EXCELLY. JONATHAN TRUMBALL.

MOUNT VERNON 26th Feby. 1799
Sir,

The Columbian Alphabet which you were so polite as
to send me, came safe, and for which I pray you to
accept my thanks. — It is curious, and if it could be
introduced, might be useful for the purposes proposed ;
but it will be a work of time, it is to be feared, before
it will be adopted generally.
I am Sir

Your most Obedt. Hble Servant
G. WASHINGTON.
MR. JAMES EWING.

MOUNT VERNON, 28th. Feb., 1799.
Der. Sir,

The letter with which you were pleased to favour me,
dated the first instant accompanying in your thanks-
giving Sermon came duly to hand. —

For the latter I pray you to accept my thanks. — I
have read it, and, the Appendix with pleasure; and,
with the latter at least, could meet a more general cir-

262 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

eolation than it probably will have, for it contains im-
portant information, as little known out of a small
circle as the detrimentation of it would be useful, if
spread through the Community. —
With great respect,

I am — Revd. Sir,

Your Most Obedt. Servant,

G. WASHINGTON.
To REVD. MR. JEDIDIAH MORSE.

MOUNT VERNON, Mar. i, 1799.
Dear Sir,

I have been duly favoured with your letter of the
nth ulto. from Roxbury, accompanying your Memoirs
of the American War; which I accept, and dare say
beforehand shall read, with pleasure, as soon as the
bustle in which we now are engaged at the Wedding of
our Granddaughter Miss Custis is over. —

If in doing it, occasion should be found to make any
observations thereon, I shall avail myself of the lib-
erty you allow me, to express my sentiments with the
utmost candour and, freedom. — In the meanwhile, I
pray you to accept my best thanks for the testimony of
your friendship and politeness in sending me the work
so elegantly bound — Mrs. Washington is thankful for
your kind remembrance of her. — and with great esteem
& regard — I am,

Dr. Sir,

Your Most Obedt. Hble. Servt.,

G. WASHINGTON.
To MAJR. GENL. WILLIAM HEATH.

MOUNT VERNON, 3d. Mar., 1799.
Sir,

Mr. Anderson has shown me your letter of the 23d.
ultimo, to him, with an estimate of the expence of build-

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 263

ing horse mills, differently constructed. — For the
trouble you have taken in this business, I feel myself
very much obliged.

A Mill grinding from 15 to 20 bushl. a day, with two
horses, would nearly, if not entirely answer all my pur-
poses ; with the occasional aid of the water mill which
in the driest seasons, grinds a little.

For this reason I prefer greatly your last plan —
namely — fixing a mill to one of the threshing machines
now erected ; if you are perfectly satisfied in your own
mind that it will grind according to your estimate —
even the smallest quantity that is 15 bushl. a day —
and I prefer moreover annexing it to the machine at
Union, as most central to the Farms, & more conven-
ient on other accounts. —

Having thus determined, I am now to request, that
you will purchase the best pair of Cologn stones (men-
tioned in your letter) and, if anything else can be much
better prepared at Richmond than here, to provide &
send the whole round by the first conveyance : and be
ready to come up yourself to put the whole together,
so soon as you shall be advised of their arrival. —

Being acquainted with the abilities of my tradesmen
in their different lines, you know, of course, what they
are capable of executing ; — and as materials of all sorts
(with a little previous notice) can be provided, and in
the forwardness you may direct, on the spot, I am per-
suaded you will run me to no other expence to obtain
them from Richmond than shall in your judgment, be
essential. — You will please to advise me of the time I
may expect you, & them,

With esteem — I am Sir —

Your Very Hble. Servt.,

G. WASHINGTON.

To MR. WILLIAM BOOKER.

264 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

MOUNT VERNON, i7th, Mar., 1799.
Dear Sir,

In April, after you quit the Walks of Public life
(1797.) I agreed with one George Ball for the Land I
held in Gloucester County; on account of which, he
made me a small payment of £200, or thereabouts ; —
was to have paid about three hundred more the April
following; and the bale, in two annual instalments
thereafter. — Since which I have never seen Mr. Ball,
nor have heard from him on this subject. — And what is
still more extraordinary, I do not know whether he
removed to the Land, or where he now lives ; conse-
quently, do not know with certainty at what place to
direct to him. —

This, my good Sir, must be my apology for giving you
the trouble of the enclosed; in order, if he lives in
Gloucester (on the land) that it may be forwarded to
him ; — if not, to be returned to — Dr. Sir

Yr. Most Obedt. Hble. Servant,

G. WASHINGTON.
To JOHN PAGE, Esq.

MOUNT VERNON, i8th, Mar., 1799.
Dear Sir,

Colo. Thos Lee (of Londoun) is possessed, I am in-
formed, of a tract of about 400 acres of Land within a
mile of Colchester, which he is disposed to sell. —

Let me request the favour of you to describe it to me
as accurately as you can from your own knowledge,
or from the information of others on whose judgment
you can rely. —

In doing this, say what the kind & quality of the doil
is; — whether level or broken, — what the nature of
the growth is; — what proportion is in wood; — how
timbered; — what tenements are on it; — the condition
of them; — whether much worn & gullied, or in good

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 265

heart; — and whether they are tenants at Will or on
leases, & what kind of leases ; — with the kindof improve-
ments.— How watered also. —

To this catalogue of enquiries, permit me to ask,
what, in your opinion, and the opinion of such as are
acquianted with the value & prices of land in that
neighbourhood, & situated as it is, it is worth in cash —
also on credit, and what credit. —

I will offer no apology for giving you the trouble to
make these enquiries, but shall thank you for answering
them; as I have an object in requesting this kindness
from you — with esteem

I am— Dear Sir

Your Obedient Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To CAPTN. WM. THOMPSON.

MOUNT VERNON i8th Mar. 1799

Sir,

Your letter of the i5th. Ulto. came duly to hand, and
I feel obliged by the pains you were at to obtain gold
thread for the uniform suit you were requested to make
and forward to me. — I am perfectly satisfied that
nothing was left unattempted on your part to comply
with my order.

This article (gold thread) being expected in the
Spring Importations, you will provide what is good,
and have the suit compleated (by skilful workmen)
agreeably to former directions, and sent in the manner
required in my last letter. —
I am Sir
Your Very Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
MR. JAMES MCALPIN

266 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

MOUNT VERNON 25 Mar. 1799
Dear Sir,

The enclosed came under cover to me a few days ago,
and not knowing into whose hands better to place it
than yours, I forward it to you accordingly. —

The doing so, furnishes an opportunity of condoling
with you and the other friends of Mr. John Dandridge,
on his death ; an event I sincerely regretted. —

From the superscription, I know the enclosed letter
is from your brother Bartholomew; who, no doubt, has
therein informed of his present situation; should I be
mistaken however, in this conjecture, — he is now Secre-
tary to our Minister (Mr. King) in London ; — a Post as
honourable, as it may ultimately prove advantageous
to him in his passage through life. — The family at this
place are all well, and offer you there best wishes —
With esteem I am — Dear Sir

Your Obedient & Hble. Servant.

G. WASHINGTON.
MR. JULIUS DANDRIDGE.

MOUNT VERNON ist. July 1799
Gentlemen,

From my correspondent in Boston, I have (within
these two days) received the bill of cost of Glass shipped
from thence for my use — viz — $250.13 — and am
advised that the amount is to be paid to your house.

Be so good therefore to advise me whether you have
any acct. in Alexandria to whom I shall pay the
money? — or whether you would prefer having it re-
mitted in a letter, in Bank Notes ? as there is no person
in Baltimore City whom I give the trouble of doing
business for Gentlemen

Your Most Obedt. Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
MESSRS. SOLOMON COTTON & Co.
MERCHT. BALTIMORE.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 267

MOUNT VERNON, 26.. July, 1799.
Dear Sir,

Your favor of the 2$th has been received; — but you
have mistaken the case entirely with respect to the
Asses who were sent to my Jacks; — charging you
nothing for the services of the latter, and not designed
to lay you under obligation, but a feeble effort to repay
the kindnesses you have heaped upon me.

Colo. Gilpin has forwarded the wrong box of glass to
Baltimore, and soon will, I hope, receive the proper one
in return. —

Enclosed is a check on the Bank of Alexandria for
one thousand dollars agreeably to the demand of Mr.
Blagden. — for the purpose of defraying the expenses in-
curred on my buildings in the Fedl. City.

With very great esteen & regard. I am — Dear,
Your Obedt. & Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.

P. S. In the letter accompanying the glass from
Boston — the makers say "the Glass must be set con-
vex out. "
To WILLM. THORNTON. Esqr.

MOUNT VERNON, 2ist. July 1799
Gentlemen,

Enclosed are the other half parts of the two hundred
and fifty dollars remitted in my letter of the roth,
instant, together with half a dollar to make the sum
charged for the glass from the manufactury at Boston.-

If your letter of the i3th. acknowledging the receipt
of that from me dated the ist. instant which had been
written instead on the loth, which contained the parts
of Bill, had taken the least notice of the contents of the
letter, all doubt of their having reached you would
have ceased, the mistake of dates notwithstanding. —

268 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

You will please to acknowledge the receipt of this
money and the purpose for which it has been remitted
by Gentlemen

Your most obedient servant

G. WASHINGTON.
SOLOMON COTTON & Co.

MOUNT VERNON ;th Augt. 1799
Sir,

Your letter of the $th instant was presented to me
yesterday on my way home, and not read until I
reached here.

As I have no concern in publishing my letters uncon-
nected with military affairs, so it it neither my wish or
intention to interfere with them, if they do not relate
to myself personally. — I have neither Doctor Thorn ton's
letter nor my answer to it before me. I mean to ex-
press no sentiments on either ; — or on the subject to
which they aluded, further than that, a question was
asked me to which I gave an answer from the best rec-
ollection I had of the case.

Because you have requested, and inasmuch as I had
no opportunity of dealing therewith while I was in the
City, I now enclose your letter to me of the above date
to the Commissioners. The list transmitted us you
will receive under this cover.

I am — Sir — Your most obedt. servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
MR. GEO. WALKER.

MOUNT VERNON, i4th. Aug., 1799.
Sir,

It is reported & generally believed that the Houses I
am building in the Federal City are engaged to you. —

To your having the houses I have no objection, nor
should I have any to the prevalance of the report, if a

OP GEORGE WASHINGTON 269

specific agreement had ever taken place. — But as this
is not the case, and until it happens may, & doubtless
will be injurious to me ; Inasmuch as they may prevent
applications from others, it has become necessary that
this matter should be clearly understood.

It is not my intention, nor is it my wish, on the one
hand, to ask an unreasonable rent : — on the other hand,
I am not disposed to be a loser by these buildings. — I
have made the best enquiries my opportunities have
afforded, into the expectations of others with respect to
Rents, & find none who are inclined to let their pro-
perty in the Federal City or anywhere else indeed, for
less than seven & an half pr. cent on the whole expend-
iture:— to which they add the taxes thereof to that of
Insurance against Fire. — Some, I am told, will not ac-
cept of this as an equivalent Rent, because it will give
them little (if any more they say) than common interest
for their money ; when it is well known that the wear &
tare if houses require much more. —

Upon the terms, however, herementioned (having no
pecuniary inducement to build) you may become the
occupant of my lots and the improvement thereon in
the Federal City; — keeping them in repair as is cus-
tomary ; and rests with you to say yea, or nay, to make
it a bargain or otherwise. — The whole amount of the
cost can, & shall be shown to the minutest fraction, to
whomsoever is disposed to acceded to these terms; —
because the prices of the lots are known, & everything
being new, the business ready, & can easily be shown to
any one. —

You may reasonably, & justly suppose that the lots
were obtained upon the best terms, because building
houses where the condition thereof; — and because the
materials were procured without credit, for I pay or
demd. for them & the Worksmen's wages. — All parts of
the work will I persuade myself, from the character of

270 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

the undertaker, be well executed, and in a neat &
handsome but not a costly style. —

With this explanation & information you will be en-
abled to give a definitive answer: — which I shall
shortly expect, that I may know whether to consider
you as a Tenant or not.— One of the Houses, by con-
tract is to be finished in November next. — The other in
March, following. —

I am — Sir

Yr. Very Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To MR. JOHN FRANCIS

MOUNT VERNON, 1 7th Aug., 1799.
Dear Sir,

Your favor of the loth inst. enclosing a letter from
Mr. Veatch of the 7th. instant, came duly to hand. —
The receipt of which ought to have been sooner acknow-
ledged as he appears to be waiting directions.

I am very well satisfied with the Rents of my part of
Woodstock as they now stand ; — but if you, on consult-
ing Mr. Veatch should be of opinion that they could be
placed on a better footing now, or at any time hence, it
would be equally agreeable to me that you should make
the attention and shall be confirmed by.

Dear Sir
Your Most Obedient & Obligd. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To COLO. FRANCIS DEAKINS.

MOUNT VERNON, 27th. Aug., 1799.
Sir,

By my Servant Tom, I was favoured with your
letter of the 2ist. instant.

I am persuaded that in the benefit which the nature
of his case would advise he has, or will receive from

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 271

your treatment of the affliction under which he has
been and if it is incurable he must be satisfied that I
have neglected nothing to restore his spirit to him. —

It was an imposition to ask you for money, for I gave
him more than sufficient to bear his expences down &
up? — and impudent to say I had directed it. — A liberty
I never should have thought of.

Your charge is extraordinarily moderate — and the
amount is herein enclosed by, Sir

Your Most Obedient & Humble Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
To DOCTR. WILLIAM BAYNHAM.

MOUNT VERNON 28th. Augt. 1799
Gentlemen,

Monday's mail brought me the enclosed letter of the
22nd. Instant from Colo. Pickering. —

As it is more in your line than in mine, to give it the
consideration which so interesting a subject merits ;-
and as the field (hitherto so little cultivated) refers to
the adoption of any plan which wisdom, sound policy
& foresight may dictate, I take the liberty of transmit-
ting it for your persual, being persuaded that the
thought of any intelligent and well disposed person on
a point of such importance to the wellbeing of a City
which is designated to be the seat of Empire, cannot be
illy received by you.

With great esteem and regard
I am Gentlemen

Your Most Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
THE COMMISSIONERS

of the FEDERAL CITY.

MOUNT VERNON, 29th. Aug., 1799.
Mr. Roberts,

I have been much disappointed in not seeing you

272 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

according to promise — and more so from your silence.

My Miller's time as I informed you would be the case,
expired the i2th. of this month; but rather than leave
my mill to the care of negros, he has consented to re-
main until this time ; & will do so until the day after
tomorrow, when he has engaged a waggon to remove
him & his things to the place to which he is going —
many miles from hence. —

I request to hear from you immediately, for it is
better to know the worst of a thing, than to be held in
suspence. I remain

Your friend

G. WASHINGTON.
To MR. WILLM. ROBERTS.

MOUNT VERNON, 2pthAugt. 1799.
Revd. Sir,

I have been duly favored with your letter of the 2oth
instant accompanying "The Philanthropist."

For your politeness in sending the latter, I pray you
to receive my best thanks. — Much indeed is it to be
wished that the sentiments contained in the Pamphlet,
and the doctrine it endeavors to inculcate, were more
prevalent. — Happy would it be for this country at least,
if they were so. — But while the passions of mankind are
under so little restraint as they are among us. — and
while there are so many motives & views, to bring
them into action we may wish for, but will never see the
accomplishment of it. — With respect — I am-Revd. Sir
Your Most Obedt. & Hble. Servant

G. Washington.
To REVD. MR. MASON LOCKE WEEMS

MOUNT VERNON, 3oth. Aug., 1799.
Dear Sir,
Although I have more than a sufficient deposit in the

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 2?3

Bank of Alexandria take up my note, yet, as I know
also that there will be calls upon me that may not con-
veniently answered without that aid ; — I have thought
it advisable (as the 60 days has, or is about to expire)
to renew it : — and will thank you for taking the neces-
sary steps, to effect it accordingly. — With very great
esteem and regard — I am Dear Sir —

Your Most Obedt. & Affecte. Servt.
To WILLM. HERBERT, Esq. G. WASHINGTON.

MOUNT VERNON, ist. Septr., 1799.
Dear Sir,

Your letter with its enclosure, was not received until
after candlelight last night ; — owing, I presume, to my
not having sent to the Post Office on Friday: — rarely
sending oftener than every other day, for my letters
& Papers. —

I have put my name to the enclosed note, although
it ought to have been at the Bank yesterday ; to be
returned, or destroyed, as circumstances require. —

This business of borrowing and discount (as you will
perceive) I am quite a novice in. — What I meant by
renewing my note, was no more than, instead of taking
it up, by applying so much of my deposit in Bank to
this purpose in payment thereof to let it remain — so as
that, this sum might be at my command, whether I
adopted proper means to effect this end, you are the
best judge. —

It is quite immaterial to me, whether the discount
was made last week — this week or the nest — provided
all things are right with respect to the old note ; which
being for Sixty days I know ought to be paid at the end
thereof, or renewed. — With this explanation of my in-
tentions you will please to have, or cause to be done,
what is proper on my part that I may not be brought
into any unpleasant predicament at the Bank. —

274 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

It is far from my intention, or wish, to saddle you with
the expence of stamps, and therefore pray to be charged
with their cost, and to be told where, & in what
manner I can be provided with others. — With very
great esteem — I am — Dear Sir

Yr. Most Obedt. & Affecte. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON*
To WILLM. HERBERT, Esq.

MOUNT VERNON, ist. Septr. 1799
Sir,

I have been duly honoured with your favor of the
1 3th. of April from Falmouth accompanying what I
presuade myself will (when opened) be found to be, a
very fine Cheese; as all which I have had from you
have proved.

For this additional evidence of your kind, and polite
attention to me, I pray you to accept my gratitude and
thanks. —

Unsuccessful in my first attempt to get a few (Vir-
ginia) Hams to you I am making another trial — through
the medium of Messrs. Thompson & Veitch — and hope
they will meet with a better fate than the last. —

For your obliging wishes respecting me I feel very
sensible. — I reciprocate them cordially — and am
Sir

Your obliged and

MostObed. Hble. Servt.

Go. WASHINGTON.
MR. WM. HAMBLY.

MOUNT VERNON Septr. ist. 1799
Sir,

I have duly received your letter of the i2th. of
August, together with the Oration delivered by you
in Boston on the i7th. of July. —

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 275

I thank you for the very flattering sentiments which
you have expressed in your letter respecting myself,
and I consider your sending me your Oration as a
mark of polite attention which demands my best
acknowledgment; — and I pray you will be assured,
that I am never more gratified than when I see the
effusions of genius from some of the rising generation,
which promises to secure our National rank in the
literary world, and trust their firm, manly and patriotic
conduct will ever maintain it with dignity in the
Political.

I am Sir

Very respectfully

Your Most Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
MR. THOMAS (afterward Robert Treat) PAINE

MOUNT VERNON nth. Sep. 1799
Dear Sir,

The 2oth. of this month — when Mr. Blagden would
require an advance of a thousand dollars — being near
at hand — and Mr. (Thomas) Peter affording a good and
safe opportunity to remit it — I enclose for this purpose
a check on the Bank of Alexandria, to that amount.

Mr. Peter informs me that his brother has

Ironmongery of a good quality, which he wants to
dispose of, and would sell cheap. — I pray you therefore
to inform Mr. Blagden of this circumstance, — request
him to examine it, — and if of the kind & quality he
requires & to be had on good terms to supply himself
therefrom, and at the foot of the Invoice to draw upon
me for the amount; which shall be immediately paid.
With great esteem & regard

I am Dear Sir

Your Most Obedt. Servt.
WILLM. THORNTON Esqr. G. WASHINGTON.

276 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

MOUNT VERNON 226.. Sepr. 1799
Dear Sir,

Your letter of the i6th. instt. has been received,
informing me of the death of my brother.

The death of near relatives always produce awful,
and affecting emotions, under whatsoever circum-
stances it may happen. — That of my brother's has
been so long expected, — and his later days so uncom-
fortable to himself, must have prepared all around
him for the stroke, though painful in the effect.

I was the first and now the last of my father's
Children by the second marriage who remain. — When
I will be called upon to follow is known only to the
giver of life. — When the summons comes I shall en-
deavor to obey with a good grace. — Mrs. Washington
has been and still is very much indisposed — but joins
with me in best wishes for you & Mrs. Ball and family.
— With great esteem & regard

I am — Dear Sir — Your affect. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
COLO. BURGESS BALL.

MOUNT VERNON 22nd. Septr. 1799

Dear Sir,

Your letter of the i6th. Instant came to my hands
by the last post. I learn with regret the cause of
General [Charles Cotesworth] Pinckney's visit to
Rhode Island. From the accounts of his Lady's
health by Brigr. Genl. Washington, it is to be feared
her case is dangerous.

I am sorry to hear that the Recruiting Service, in
the district to which you were assigned, progresses so
slowly. — It was conjectured beforehand that you
would have many difficulties to encounter there. — The
result therefore, is not a matter of surprise.

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 277

Until you are requested to join the General Officer
to whose person you are attached, — or directed by
him to remain Stationary for the purpose of receiving,
& executing his orders, I conceive it will be best on
you to obey the orders of your Colonel.

Mr. Lear left this a few days ago for the air of the
Mountains. — Mrs. Washington has been much in-
disposed but joins in greeting you with

Dr. Sir— Yr. Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
CAPT. PRESLY THORNTON.

MOUNT VERNON, 2 5th Sept., 1799.
Sir,

Your letter of the 2nd. instt. came duly to hand ; —
but previous thereto, I had written to Mr. Francis of
Philadelphia, (who report had engaged the houses to,
I was building in the Federal City) to have in explicit
terms whether he meant to take them, or not, on the
conditions I offered them, — namely — Seven and an half
per sent on the whole cost ; — to which, taxes, if any
and Insurance against fire, were to be added. — On
lower terms, no person in the Fedl. City, or elsewhere
that I could hear of would let — ; a but few who would
sell on these, as it was but little more than legal and
common interest of money when it is well known that
the wear & of houses required much more. —

I have waited until now, to name Mr. Francis's an-
swer, without hearing from him ; which has been the
cause of my not replying to your letter sooner. — If
his answer is detained much longer, I shall feel myself
under no obligation to prefer him, because he was the
first applicant, for them. —

Although my house, or houses (for they may be one or
two as occasion requires) are I believe, upon a large
scale than any in the vicinity of the Capital, yet they,

278 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

fall far short of your wishes. — The largest room, and
that occasionally made so, is not more than a foot in
length. — The houses are three flush stories of Brick,
besides Garret rooms: — and in the judgment of those
better acquainted in these matters than I am, capable
of accommodating between twenty & thirty boarders. —
The buildings are not costly, but elegantly plain. — and
the whole cost — at a pretty neat guess — may be be-
tween fifteen and sixteen thousand dollars. — I am Sir
Your very Hble. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.

To MR. JOHN AVERY.

MOUNT VERNON 3oth. Septr. 1799
Sir,

I ought to begin this letter with an apology for
having neglected to do, what should have been
done long ago, that is — to remit the balance due on
my subscription for Mr. Trumbull's Prints. —

The truth is — that by waiting awhile for the un-
packing of my papers to see if any thing would be
found elucidative of my payment on this occasion,
the thing had escaped me altogether, and occured
again by accident.

I now find that on the 5th of April 1790, I paid to
John Trumbull, Esqr. twelve guineas, which is entered
in my Books as being one half of the subscription for
four copies of two prints to be published by him. —
This, I presume, was paid at the time of my subscribing ;
and as you observe in your letter of the 26th. of March,
that the other half of the subscription money was to
be paid on delivery of the prints, I enclose you a check
on the Bank of Pennsylvania for twelve guineas more —
say fifty six dollars — for which sum, when you shall

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 279

have received it, I pray you to advise me, specifying
in the receipt, the purpose for which it was paid.
I am Sir

Your Obedt. Hble. Servant

Go. WASHINGTON.
MR. JOSEPH ANTHONY

MOUNT VERNON, i8th. Nov., 1799.
Gentlemen,

Your letter of the i3th. instt. and its enclosure, did
not reach my hands until Saturday morning. —

Enclosed you will find a check on the Bank of Col-
umbia, for my dividend on stock in that Bank, for the
last half year. — Not knowing precisely, what percent-
age it drew, I am uncertain whether it will exceed, or
fall short of your demand on me, for the 2d. Instalment
on lot, No. 1 6, in the City. — If the latter, please to in-
form^me of the deficiency and the amount shall be trans-
mitted in Bank notes. — With great esteem & regard,
I am Gentlemen,

Your Most Obedt. Hble. Servt.,

G. WASHINGTON.
To THE COMMISSIONERS OF THE FEDERAL CITY.

MOUNT VERNON, iSthNovr., 1799.
Dear Sir,

Your favour of the i3th instt. came duly to hand. — I
am now making arrangements at the Bank of Alex-
andria for obtaining money. — When this is accom-
plished I will forward a check on that Bank for the
$1000 required by Mr. Blagden, & hope it will be in time
to answer his purposes. —

I have no objection for Mr. Blagden 's frequent calls
for money but I fear the work which is not enumerated
in the Contract with him, is pretty smartly whipped up
in the price of it. — I had no expectation (for instance)

that a well little more than 30 feet deep, was to cost me
upwards of £70. — I may, however, have misconceived
the matter from ignorance of the usual rates. — With
great esteem & regard — I am — Dr. Sir

Yr. Obedt. Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To WILLM. THORNTON, Esq.

MOUNT VERNON, 2oth. Novr., 1799.
Sir,

Your favour of the i5th. instant, in answer to my
letters of the 9th & 8th & addressed to the Surveyor
General of the Land Office (wch. proves the necessity
there was for my plea of ignorance) came duly to hand,
with the Land Office Treasury warrants for your oblig-
ing attention to which, I pray you to accept my thanks.

Perceiving by your letter that Willm. Shepherd has
made a Survey, & returned it to your Office, similar in
some respects to my proposed Entry; and believing
that'it must have been done unknowingly to those who
have lands adjoining, — and comprehends land always
reputed to be mine; and so understood by all the
neighbourhood thereabts. I request the favour of you to
furnish me with a copy of the Survey & Plat, that I
maybe enabled thereby to investigate the matter more
fully. — Until which, I must beg that this letter may be
considered as a covent against a Grant thereof to Wm.
Shepherd.

If the rules & Proceedings in your Office require a
more formal protest against such issue, I must rely on
your goodness to advice me, for having had very little
to do with the local Laws of the State since the Revo-
lution, & not having those passed since that period by
me, I may be mistaken in this, as in my former appli-
cation.—

Enclosed is a five dollar Bill : — if it be insufficient to

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 281

cover the expense of the Land Warrant, — Copy of
Shepherd's Survey, — and the Protest against a Grrant
issuing thereon you will please to advice.

As another proof of my unacquaintedness in this
business nay expectation was, that the Entry I pro-
posed to make would have covered all the land within
the described location, — but the warrant fix it, I per-
ceive, to 100 acres only. — It may be more or it may be
kess ; and cannot be ascertained until, the Survey is
made. — I should not like to be fixed to the above
quantity, if the vacant land exceeds it. —

I am Sir —
Your Most Obedient and Very Hble. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
To WILLM. PRICE, Esq.

MOUNT VERNON, 2oth. Nov., 1799.
Dear Sir,

When I wrote to you the other day, I expected to
have settled matters with the Bk. of Alexandria so as
to have been enabled to have sent you, for Mr. Blagden's
use, a check thereon for $1000. — But not being well
enough acquainted with the rules of the Bank, I suf-
fered what are called discount days, to pass over be-
fore I applied ; for which reason the business there must
remain over until after Tuesday of next week.

But, if to do this will be attended with any incon-
venience to Mr. Blagden, and he will be at the trouble of
riding, or sending any person down here, competent to
receive the money — Mr. Lewis, who has it by him, will
lend me that sum, and it shall be paid of this I would
thank you for informing Mr. Blagden.
With esteem &ca.,

I remain Yr. Obedt. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To WILLM. THORNTON, Esq.

282 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

MOUNT VERNON 23rd. Novr. 1799.

Gentlemen,

Your letter of the i9th. was reed, yesterday. — If
my attendance at Mr. HeiskelTs in Alexandria on the
26th. could render you any real service, I would do
it with pleasure. —

But all that I could relate would be hearsay whilst
means exist, to obtain (I presume) positive proofs of
the facts you wish to establish.

With respect to the division of the tract of (what you
call) 51,302 acres, I am as ignorant as any man whom
you might pick up, by chance in the Streets of Alex-
andria.—

I believe Mr. Jno. West, deceased, was one of the
Patentee' in the large Survey of the Mo. of the Great
Kanhawa; — but to this fact I would give no positive
evidence: — for after being at the whole trouble, and
the greater part of the expence to obtain a recognition
of the original grant of 200,000 Acres; — and being
compelled, very improperly I did think, and always
have thought, to take it in twenty Surveys, the
Government and Council found themselves, by this
act (which was protested against) under the necessity
of jumbling a number of names into the same Patent,
in order to give each claimant according to his grade,
& the ratio they had alloted him the gth (?) allowed, —
whereas if the privilege of locating that quality,
within the District which they had assigned for this
purpose had been given to each Claimant, it would
have prevented all the difficulties, and perplexities
which have ensued, to the inconvenience of all, and
entire loss of the land to some. —

But thus the matter was ordered, by that body, —
after which, and the issuing of the Patents consequent
thereof, my Agency ceased; and I concerned myself

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 283

with no other part of the land than was assigned me,
& such as I purchased thereafter of others. —

With respect to the decision of the tract you allude
to, — so far am I from knowing that it was made
according to law, that I do not know it was ever made ; —
and as to the issue of Mr. Jno. West, I am entirely
unacquainted, otherwise than by report ; — never having
been in his house, that I recollect, more than once —
and that over 30 years ago — and 25 of which but little
in this state. — I am Gentn.

Your very Hble. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.
MESSRS. HEPBURN & DUNDAS.

MOUNT VERNON, ist. Deer., 1799.
Sir,

In answer to your letter of the 27th ulto. — If you
have no vessel passing below this (from whence the
Sugar could be landed with very little trouble or delay)
I request that it may be deposited at Colo. Gilpin's, in
Alexandria. —

Let the cask in which it is packed, be well secured, —
the sugars hitherto had from you, has, sometimes,
fallen short in weight. — I am Sir

Your Very Hble. Servant

G. WASHINGTON.

TRACED FACSIMILE OF GEORGE WASHINGTON'S
CHARACTERISTIC WRITING.

GEORGE WASHINGTON 285

MOUNT VERNON, 2d. Deer., 1799.
Sir,

I have been duly favoured with your letter of the 2 5th
ulto. enclosing a copy of the Survey made for William
Shepherd, for four & three quarter acres, and the
form of a Carrate against the issuing a Patent therefor.

I cannot from the Survey, discover with presision
where this land lyes, and therefore shall give no further
opposition to the Grant of it. — If it be, where I suspect
it is within the bounds of a Patent under which I hold,
of more than sixty years' standing — of course, cannot
effect it. —

I am sorry that I have given you so much trouble in
this business, at the same time that I feel obliged by the
prompt and ready advice you have been so kind as to
give me for the prosecution of it. From what I had
heard of Shepherd's Survey, I conceived differently of
its object. —

I am Sir —

Your Obedt. Hble. Servt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To WILLM. PRICE, Esq.

MOUNT VERNON, 2d. Deer. 1799
Dear Sir,

Since you mentioned the Plaster of Paris which was
for sale in Richmond, (but after you left this) it oc-
curred to me that as it was not a saleable article with
you it might be my cheapest mode to purchase there to
supply my wants of this article next year on my
Farms around me. —

Permit me, for this reason, to ask the favour of you to
learn from the Gentleman who has it for sale, — what
quantity he has? — the lowest price he would take for it
by the ton (the whole being purchased) there? — and
what delivered at my landing? — As a Merchant, ac-

286 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

quainted with Navigation, he will be at no loss to know
at what freight it could be delivered here.

A Gentleman now in Alexandria is endeavouring to
obtain Subscribers for a vessel load from Nova Scotia ;
the terms I have not learned ; — but if that in Richmond
be good, and had as low, I should prefer because it is al-
ready in the Country, and the risques of the Sea
avoided. —

All, however, depends upon its being of the irue sort
for without this, it would be as useless for the purpose
intended, as pebble stones. — There are two colours of it
— one has a greyish — the other a blewish cast; — the
latter I think is prefered; but both are good when
perfectly free from grit, or sand ; — having any of the
latter is a proof of its baseness. — The best criterion for
ascertaining its property, is, by putting the fine powder
of the plaster, into a skillet or Pot without moisture, —
the good will swell, or rise up ; the bad will remain dead,
& motionless. —

I would thank you for sending me (if to be had) two
glaized leather hats such as your Postilions wore, and
of that size. — Accompany them with the cost, and the
money shall be remitted in a bank note. — I am in no
immediate want of them ; an occasional, or water trans-
portation (directed to the home of Colo. Gilpin in Alexa.)
will do. —

I hope you got down safe. — Our Comps. to Mrs.
Carrington. — I am always — Dear Sir

Your Affecte. and Obedt.

G. WASHINGTON.
To COLO. (EDWARD) CARRINGTON.

MOUNT VERNON, 25th June, 1798.
Dear Sir,

You will perceive by the enclosed in what manner I
am disappointed in receiving the Rent for my house in

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 287

Alexandria. These things put you, the payer & my-
self in an awkward situation, for it must seem strange
to demand what has been paid. I must therefore re-
quest, in explicit terms, that you will receive no more
monies due to me, and I should be glad to have a state-
ment of the % as it stands between us, since the last
was rendered, — it appearing by information, from my
Collector in Montgomery County, Maryland, that some
parts of my Rents there, had been paid to you since the
period above mentioned.

I have not the smallest doubt of my being credited
for every farthing you receive — on my % — but that
does not remedy the evil. With sincere esteem and
regard — I am Yr Affe

Go WASHINGTON
MR. LEAR.
[Washington Papers, Library of Congress]

MOUNT VERNON, 26th June, 1798.
Dear Sir,

Mr. Anderson requesting that the boy who was going
to the Post Office yesterday, might call & deliver a
letter to you, from him, concerning flour. — Availing
myself of that conveyance, I sat down, and was in the
act of writing the hasty lines you received from me by
him, when I was summoned to dinner. In my hurry
to close and Seal it, I omitted the enclosure then re-
fered to, and which is now forwarded.

I can only repeat, what I mentioned yesterday, that
I never had the most distant suspicion that every far-
thing that you had received, or might receive on my %,
would be justly credited, but this will not supply my
wants, and it would be uncandid and inconsistent with
the frankness of friendship, not to declare that I have
not approved nor cannot approve, of having my money
received and applied to uses not my own, without my

288 LETTERS AND RECOLLECTIONS

consent, and even without advice of it ; which, among
other improprieties of the measure, involves the awk-
ward, and unpleasant consequences mentioned in my
letter of yesterday.

You must be too well acquainted with the product of
my Farms, & the expence I live at, to need information
that my income, arising from them, would not meet my
expenditures, and that, had it not been for monies
arising from the Sale of Lands, my business must have
stopped, or my embarrassments at this moment would
have been great and in this last resourse, I have met
with disappointments, for of three — nay four — Instal-
ments for different tracts of land, now & sometime
since due, I see no likelihood of receiving a shilling.

I do not bring these facts to your view with inten-
tion of reminding you of your Debt to me. On the
contrary, take your own time, & convenience, to pay
it, — but let the whole % be settled, that I may see, and
know the precise statement of the Balance between us.
With the greatest esteem & friendship, I remain

Your Affectionate

G. WASHINGTON
MR. LEAR
[Washington Papers, Library of Congress.]

MOUNT VERNON, 4th July 1 798
Dear Sir,

I have received your letter and % of the 26. Inst.
and presume it is all right. I wish however you had
charged the Scow, & given credit, for the articles had
from Mr. Anderson, as it was my wish to have seen a
complete state of it.

The thousand dollars lent, was not on usury; and
therefore I desire it may be struck out of your %, as I
shall do it out of mine, when it comes to be entered in
my Ledger. — I mean the Interest, which you have

OF GEORGE WASHINGTON 289

given me credit for — $60 — And it is not my desire, as I
mentioned in my former letter, that you should put
yourself to any inconvenience in paying the principal.

I have been so much engaged for the few days, past,
that I have been unable to look into any accounts
whatever, of course, I cannot now say what has been
charged to me, as paid to you. I recollected however,
that this was plead, when my Collector in Maryland
was called upon for my Rents.

My Papers are yet in such a jumble, that I know not
where, readily to look for your former % ; but it dwells
upon my Memory that in that, I was charged with £50
paid the Trustees of the Academy in Alexandria — if I
am right in this, the Treasurer thereof has received a
year's annuity more than the School is entitled to.
Reference to your Books, if you have them by you, or
to the % rendered to me when I come across it, will
decide the matter at once.

With very great esteem and respect
I am Dear Sir

Your affectionate

G. WASHINGTON
MR LEAR
[From the Washington Papers, Library of Congress.]

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